Bobcat S185 vs Bobcat S650: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $30,170 for the Bobcat S650. That's a $11,165 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the S650's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,200 lb for the S650. Based on 302 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S185 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $11,165 less than the S650. The S650 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,200 lb lifting capacity .
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 S650
SSL$30,170 CAD avg
$2,622
Low
$76,891
High
150
Sales
Avg 2,838 hours · 2010–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and S650 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S650 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,200 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 7,555 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and S650?
- Price: The S185 is $11,165 cheaper on average (37% savings).
- Power: The S650 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S650 lifts 350 lbs more (2,200 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while S650 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while S650s average 2,838 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or S650? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or S650?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($11,165 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S650 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,200 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and S650 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S650 |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $64,829 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $75,257 (2) |
| 2019 | — | $41,116 (15) |
| 2018 | — | $30,968 (4) |
| 2017 | — | $33,870 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $31,346 (22) |
| 2015 | — | $27,056 (23) |
| 2014 | — | $28,387 (38) |
| 2013 | — | $24,535 (12) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $26,569 (8) |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $20,147 (8) |
| 2010 | $23,923 (12) | $27,817 (10) |
| 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 S650 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S650 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $48,935 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $35,423 (34) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $29,489 (33) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $28,488 (24) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $19,654 (28) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or S650 in Canada?
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