Bobcat S185 vs Takeuchi TL12: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $35,736 for the Takeuchi TL12. That's a $16,731 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the TL12's 111 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,560 lb for the TL12. Based on 224 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 $16,731 less than the TL12. The TL12 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 50 HP or the higher 3,560 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 →Takeuchi TL12
SSL$35,736 CAD avg
$467
Low
$77,418
High
72
Sales
Avg 3,141 hours · 2012–2016 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and TL12 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 111 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 3,560 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 12,632 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and TL12?
- Price: The S185 is $16,731 cheaper on average (47% savings).
- Power: The TL12 has 50 more horsepower (111 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The TL12 lifts 1710 lbs more (3,560 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while TL12 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S185s average 3,957 hours while TL12s average 3,141 hours.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or TL12? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or TL12?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($16,731 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL12 if:
- You need more power (111 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,560 lbs)
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and TL12 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | — | $37,026 (20) |
| 2015 | — | $36,787 (14) |
| 2014 | — | $34,467 (16) |
| 2013 | — | $43,162 (16) |
| 2012 | $26,392 (12) | $36,473 (2) |
| 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 TL12 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $42,666 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $49,775 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $41,346 (26) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $34,568 (8) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $27,354 (16) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or TL12 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
Takeuchi TL12
No active listings right now.
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