Bobcat S185 vs New Holland C245: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $73,780 for the New Holland C245. That's a $54,775 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the C245's 90 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 4,500 lb for the C245. Based on 158 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 $54,775 less than the C245. The C245 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 29 HP or the higher 4,500 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 C245
CTL$73,780 CAD avg
$59,960
Low
$98,042
High
6
Sales
Avg 1,061 hours · 2018–2019 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and C245 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C245 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 90 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 4,500 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 12,920 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and C245?
- Price: The S185 is $54,775 cheaper on average (74% savings).
- Power: The C245 has 29 more horsepower (90 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C245 lifts 2650 lbs more (4,500 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C245 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 C245s average 1,061 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or C245? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or C245?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($54,775 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland C245 if:
- You need more power (90 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (4,500 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and C245 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C245 |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | — | $93,043 (2) |
| 2018 | — | $64,742 (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 C245 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | New Holland C245 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $93,043 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $64,149 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | — |
| 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 C245 in Canada?
Bobcat S185
None Bobcat S185
2,700 hrs · Abbotsford
$32,000 CAD
2008 Bobcat S185
N/A hrs · Whitehorse
$40,000 CAD
2004 Bobcat S185
2,764 hrs · Surrey
$20,900 CAD
2005 Bobcat S185
2,574 hrs · Ste-Agathe
$23,800 CAD
New Holland C245
No active listings right now.
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Bobcat S185
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on New Holland C245
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.