Bobcat S185 vs Case SV280: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $32,066 for the Case SV280. That's a $13,060 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the SV280's 84 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,800 lb for the SV280. Based on 188 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 $13,060 less than the SV280. The SV280 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 23 HP or the higher 2,800 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 →Case SV280
SSL$32,066 CAD avg
$9,563
Low
$51,943
High
36
Sales
Avg 1,716 hours · 2015–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and SV280 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Case SV280 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 84 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 8,500 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and SV280?
- Price: The S185 is $13,060 cheaper on average (41% savings).
- Power: The SV280 has 23 more horsepower (84 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The SV280 lifts 950 lbs more (2,800 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while SV280s average 1,716 hours.
Both Bobcat and Case retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or SV280? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or SV280?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($13,060 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Case SV280 if:
- You need more power (84 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,800 lbs)
- You prefer Case's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and SV280 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Case SV280 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $42,651 (2) |
| 2019 | — | $10,258 (2) |
| 2018 | — | $12,750 (2) |
| 2017 | — | $35,353 (10) |
| 2016 | — | $29,336 (6) |
| 2015 | — | $33,922 (12) |
| 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 SV280 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Case SV280 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $44,970 (10) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $31,384 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $30,267 (14) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $18,028 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or SV280 in Canada?
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