Bobcat S185 vs Case TR270: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $41,451 for the Case TR270. That's a $22,445 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the TR270's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,700 lb for the TR270. Based on 186 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 $22,445 less than the TR270. The TR270 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,700 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 TR270
CTL$41,451 CAD avg
$10,322
Low
$63,168
High
34
Sales
Avg 1,509 hours · 2011–2019 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and TR270 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Case TR270 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 9,525 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and TR270?
- Price: The S185 is $22,445 cheaper on average (54% savings).
- Power: The TR270 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The TR270 lifts 850 lbs more (2,700 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while TR270 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TR270 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while TR270s average 1,509 hours.
Both Bobcat and Case retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or TR270? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or TR270?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($22,445 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Case TR270 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,700 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Case's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and TR270 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Case TR270 |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | — | $48,074 (4) |
| 2018 | — | $46,112 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $46,860 (8) |
| 2015 | — | $51,491 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $38,892 (4) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $34,254 (6) |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $39,665 (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 TR270 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Case TR270 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $46,587 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $45,475 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $37,303 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $23,400 (2) |
| 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 TR270 in Canada?
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