Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 317G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $44,087 for the John Deere 317G. That's a $25,081 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 317G's 65 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 317G. Based on 193 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 $25,081 less than the 317G. 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 →John Deere 317G
SSL$44,087 CAD avg
$20,700
Low
$85,197
High
41
Sales
Avg 1,408 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 317G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 8,785 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 317G?
- Price: The S185 is $25,081 cheaper on average (57% savings).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while 317Gs average 1,408 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 317G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 317G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($25,081 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317G if:
- You need more power (65 HP)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 317G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $70,035 (6) |
| 2022 | — | $65,784 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $39,217 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $25,570 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $46,941 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $29,092 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $35,799 (7) |
| 2016 | — | $27,008 (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 317G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $62,151 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $28,705 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $30,351 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $31,666 (3) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or 317G in Canada?
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