Bobcat S185 vs Bobcat S850: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $29,856 for the Bobcat S850. That's a $10,851 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the S850's 100 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,150 lb for the S850. Based on 162 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 $10,851 less than the S850. The S850 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 39 HP or the higher 3,150 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 S850
SSL$29,856 CAD avg
$16,698
Low
$52,839
High
10
Sales
Avg 3,195 hours · 2011–2015 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and S850 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S850 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 100 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 3,150 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 9,590 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and S850?
- Price: The S185 is $10,851 cheaper on average (36% savings).
- Power: The S850 has 39 more horsepower (100 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S850 lifts 1300 lbs more (3,150 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while S850s average 3,195 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or S850? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or S850?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($10,851 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S850 if:
- You need more power (100 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,150 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and S850 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S850 |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | $16,946 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $37,131 (4) |
| 2013 | — | $32,844 (2) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | — |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $25,228 (2) |
| 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 S850 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Bobcat S850 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $52,225 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $29,036 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $22,037 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $16,946 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or S850 in Canada?
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