Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 318G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $24,411 for the John Deere 318G. That's a $5,406 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 318G's 65 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 318G. Based on 161 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 $5,406 less than the 318G. 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 318G
SSL$24,411 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$31,870
High
9
Sales
Avg 1,418 hours · 2016–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 318G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 6,830 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 318G?
- Price: The S185 is $5,406 cheaper on average (22% savings).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while 318Gs average 1,418 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 318G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 318G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,406 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 318G if:
- You need more power (65 HP)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 318G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $11,040 (1) |
| 2017 | — | $29,976 (2) |
| 2016 | — | $24,785 (6) |
| 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 318G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $29,976 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $24,785 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $11,040 (1) |
| 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 318G in Canada?
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