Bobcat S185 vs New Holland L228: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $24,977 for the New Holland L228. That's a $5,971 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the L228's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,400 lb for the L228. 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 $5,971 less than the L228. The L228 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 2,400 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 →New Holland L228
SSL$24,977 CAD avg
$13,813
Low
$43,027
High
14
Sales
Avg 2,064 hours · 2015–2019 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and L228 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | New Holland L228 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 7,560 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and L228?
- Price: The S185 is $5,971 cheaper on average (24% savings).
- Power: The L228 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The L228 lifts 550 lbs more (2,400 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while L228s average 2,064 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or L228? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or L228?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,971 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland L228 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,400 lbs)
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and L228 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | New Holland L228 |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | — | $26,965 (2) |
| 2018 | — | $19,998 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $22,083 (6) |
| 2015 | — | $41,627 (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 L228 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | New Holland L228 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $33,937 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $19,998 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $14,846 (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 L228 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 L228
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 L228
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.