Bobcat S185 vs Bobcat S550: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $23,450 for the Bobcat S550. That's a $4,444 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the S550's 46 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,550 lb for the S550. Based on 176 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $4,444 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Bobcat S185
SSL$19,005 CAD avg
$7,741
Low
$46,721
High
152
Sales
Avg 3,957 hours · 2002–2012 model years
Full price guide →Bobcat S550
SSL$23,450 CAD avg
$1,931
Low
$47,816
High
24
Sales
Avg 2,354 hours · 2015–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and S550 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,550 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 5,670 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S185 and S550?
- Price: The S185 is $4,444 cheaper on average (19% savings).
- Power: The S185 has 15 more horsepower (61 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S185 lifts 300 lbs more (1,850 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while S550s average 2,354 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or S550? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or S550?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($4,444 savings)
- You need more power (61 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,850 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and S550 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $10,994 (3) |
| 2019 | — | $15,717 (4) |
| 2018 | — | $36,125 (4) |
| 2017 | — | $26,909 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $19,974 (5) |
| 2015 | — | $28,738 (4) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | — |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | — |
| 2010 | $23,923 (12) | — |
| 2009 | $20,599 (4) | — |
| 2008 | $18,853 (24) | — |
| 2007 | $21,072 (8) | — |
| 2006 | $17,331 (10) | — |
| 2005 | $16,100 (34) | — |
| 2004 | $18,492 (12) | — |
| 2003 | $15,253 (8) | — |
| 2002 | $16,876 (12) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S185 and S550 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $47,225 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $20,665 (11) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $24,334 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $18,083 (3) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $20,394 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or S550 in Canada?
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