Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 331G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $59,332 for the John Deere 331G. That's a $40,326 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 331G's 91 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,000 lb for the 331G. Based on 192 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 $40,326 less than the 331G. The 331G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 30 HP or the higher 3,000 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 →John Deere 331G
CTL$59,332 CAD avg
$28,082
Low
$83,036
High
40
Sales
Avg 1,876 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 331G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 91 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 11,205 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 331G?
- Price: The S185 is $40,326 cheaper on average (68% savings).
- Power: The 331G has 30 more horsepower (91 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 331G lifts 1150 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 331G 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 331Gs average 1,876 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 331G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 331G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($40,326 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 331G if:
- You need more power (91 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,000 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 331G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,173 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $55,128 (6) |
| 2020 | — | $55,331 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $69,698 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $53,008 (10) |
| 2016 | — | $58,502 (2) |
| 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 331G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $55,662 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $64,316 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $63,395 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $41,496 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $48,576 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or 331G in Canada?
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