Bobcat S185 vs New Holland C227: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $31,504 for the New Holland C227. That's a $12,498 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the C227's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,100 lb for the C227. Based on 162 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 $12,498 less than the C227. The C227 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,100 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 C227
CTL$31,504 CAD avg
$19,734
Low
$37,328
High
10
Sales
Avg 1,549 hours · 2011–2018 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and C227 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C227 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,100 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 9,185 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and C227?
- Price: The S185 is $12,498 cheaper on average (40% savings).
- Power: The C227 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C227 lifts 250 lbs more (2,100 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C227 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 C227s average 1,549 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or C227? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or C227?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($12,498 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland C227 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,100 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and C227 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C227 |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | — | $35,246 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $34,728 (2) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $35,741 (2) |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $25,902 (4) |
| 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 C227 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C227 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $34,728 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $33,340 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $20,865 (2) |
| 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 C227 in Canada?
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