Bobcat S185 vs Cat 242D3: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $0 for the Cat 242D3. That's a $19,005 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 242D3's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,100 lb for the 242D3. Based on 152 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Cat 242D3 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $19,005 less than the S185. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
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 →Cat 242D3
SSL74
HP
2,100
lb ROC
7,385
lb Weight
vertical
Lift
Pricing data coming soon
Full price guide →How do S185 and 242D3 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Cat 242D3 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,100 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 7,385 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 242D3?
- Price: The 242D3 is $19,005 cheaper on average (100% savings).
- Power: The 242D3 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 242D3 lifts 250 lbs more (2,100 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 242D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
Both Bobcat and Cat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 242D3? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 242D3?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Cat 242D3 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($19,005 savings)
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,100 lbs)
- You prefer Cat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 242D3 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Cat 242D3 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 242D3 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Cat 242D3 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | — |
| 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 242D3 in Canada?
Bobcat S185
None Bobcat S185
2,700 hrs · Abbotsford
$32,000 CAD
2008 Bobcat S185
N/A hrs · Whitehorse
$40,000 CAD
2004 Bobcat S185
2,764 hrs · Surrey
$20,900 CAD
2005 Bobcat S185
2,574 hrs · Ste-Agathe
$23,800 CAD
Cat 242D3
No active listings right now.
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