Bobcat S185 vs New Holland C232: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $39,742 for the New Holland C232. That's a $20,736 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the C232's 84 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,700 lb for the C232. Based on 166 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 $20,736 less than the C232. The C232 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 23 HP or the higher 2,700 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 C232
CTL$39,742 CAD avg
$17,457
Low
$60,253
High
14
Sales
Avg 1,841 hours · 2011–2017 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and C232 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 84 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 10,085 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and C232?
- Price: The S185 is $20,736 cheaper on average (52% savings).
- Power: The C232 has 23 more horsepower (84 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C232 lifts 850 lbs more (2,700 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C232 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 C232s average 1,841 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or C232? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or C232?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($20,736 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland C232 if:
- You need more power (84 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,700 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and C232 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | — | $52,192 (4) |
| 2014 | — | $32,575 (2) |
| 2013 | — | $45,914 (4) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $18,756 (2) |
| 2011 | $20,699 (14) | $30,651 (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 C232 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $45,372 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $32,575 (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 C232 in Canada?
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