Bobcat S185 vs John Deere 325G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $59,056 for the John Deere 325G. That's a $40,050 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the 325G's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,690 lb for the 325G. Based on 198 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 $40,050 less than the 325G. The 325G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,690 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 325G
SSL$59,056 CAD avg
$2,760
Low
$116,931
High
46
Sales
Avg 1,609 hours · 2019–2025 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and 325G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 325G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,690 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 10,165 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and 325G?
- Price: The S185 is $40,050 cheaper on average (68% savings).
- Power: The 325G has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 325G lifts 840 lbs more (2,690 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while 325Gs average 1,609 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or 325G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or 325G?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($40,050 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 325G if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,690 lbs)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and 325G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 325G |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | — | $70,264 (2) |
| 2022 | — | $97,622 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $56,821 (16) |
| 2020 | — | $20,700 (1) |
| 2019 | — | $50,499 (21) |
| 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 325G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | John Deere 325G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $87,906 (16) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $55,863 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $42,772 (15) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $37,718 (4) |
| 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 325G in Canada?
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