Bobcat S185 vs Kubota SVL97-2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $64,345 for the Kubota SVL97-2. That's a $45,339 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the SVL97-2's 96 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,400 lb for the SVL97-2. Based on 188 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 $45,339 less than the SVL97-2. The SVL97-2 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 35 HP or the higher 3,400 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 →Kubota SVL97-2
CTL$64,345 CAD avg
$11,536
Low
$116,423
High
36
Sales
Avg 1,019 hours · 2020–2025 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and SVL97-2 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 96 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 12,470 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and SVL97-2?
- Price: The S185 is $45,339 cheaper on average (70% savings).
- Power: The SVL97-2 has 35 more horsepower (96 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The SVL97-2 lifts 1550 lbs more (3,400 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while SVL97-2 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while SVL97-2s average 1,019 hours.
Both Bobcat and Kubota retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or SVL97-2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or SVL97-2?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($45,339 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Kubota SVL97-2 if:
- You need more power (96 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,400 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Kubota's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and SVL97-2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | — | $24,839 (1) |
| 2023 | — | $50,835 (8) |
| 2022 | — | $79,443 (13) |
| 2021 | — | $80,018 (6) |
| 2020 | — | $39,363 (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 SVL97-2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $83,184 (20) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $25,888 (5) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $52,875 (6) |
| 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 SVL97-2 in Canada?
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