Bobcat S185 vs New Holland C238: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $41,158 for the New Holland C238. That's a $22,152 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the C238's 90 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,200 lb for the C238. Based on 180 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 $22,152 less than the C238. The C238 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 29 HP or the higher 3,200 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 →New Holland C238
CTL$41,158 CAD avg
$1,745
Low
$67,805
High
28
Sales
Avg 1,529 hours · 2011–2016 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and C238 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 90 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 3,200 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 10,760 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and C238?
- Price: The S185 is $22,152 cheaper on average (54% savings).
- Power: The C238 has 29 more horsepower (90 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C238 lifts 1350 lbs more (3,200 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C238 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 C238s average 1,529 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or C238? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or C238?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($22,152 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland C238 if:
- You need more power (90 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,200 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and C238 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | — | $40,115 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $51,282 (10) |
| 2014 | — | $43,797 (4) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $31,318 (6) |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $30,680 (2) |
| 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 C238 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $54,420 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $45,475 (12) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $35,857 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $30,680 (2) |
| 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 C238 in Canada?
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