Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 320G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $43,188 for the John Deere 320G. That's a $24,182 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 320G's 69 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,010 lb for the 320G. Based on 164 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 $24,182 less than the 320G. The 320G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 8 HP or the higher 2,010 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 320G
SSL$43,188 CAD avg
$16,698
Low
$71,503
High
12
Sales
Avg 1,729 hours · 2019–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 320G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 320G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 69 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,010 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 7,130 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 320G?
- Price: The S185 is $24,182 cheaper on average (56% savings).
- Power: The 320G has 8 more horsepower (69 HP vs 61 HP).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while 320Gs average 1,729 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 320G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 320G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($24,182 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 320G if:
- You need more power (69 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,010 lbs)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 320G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 320G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $37,276 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $47,682 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $51,933 (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 320G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 320G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $53,369 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $27,735 (2) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $17,915 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or 320G in Canada?
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