Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 324G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $46,031 for the John Deere 324G. That's a $27,025 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 324G's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,400 lb for the 324G. Based on 163 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 $27,025 less than the 324G. The 324G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,400 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 324G
SSL$46,031 CAD avg
$24,839
Low
$75,202
High
11
Sales
Avg 2,315 hours · 2019–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 324G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 7,640 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 324G?
- Price: The S185 is $27,025 cheaper on average (59% savings).
- Power: The 324G has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 324G lifts 550 lbs more (2,400 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while 324Gs average 2,315 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 324G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 324G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($27,025 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 324G if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,400 lbs)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 324G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,376 (2) |
| 2022 | — | $26,834 (2) |
| 2021 | — | $36,844 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $54,181 (3) |
| 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 324G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $70,114 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $35,267 (3) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $26,834 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $33,207 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or 324G in Canada?
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