Bobcat S185 vs Takeuchi TL8: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S185 averages $19,005 CAD at auction, compared to $30,396 for the Takeuchi TL8. That's a $11,390 difference. Power-wise, the S185 offers 61 HP versus the TL8's 74 HP. The S185 has 1,850 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,900 lb for the TL8. Based on 199 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 $11,390 less than the TL8. The TL8 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 13 HP or the higher 1,900 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 TL8
CTL$30,396 CAD avg
$10,152
Low
$63,755
High
47
Sales
Avg 2,340 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S185 and TL8 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,850 lbs | 1,900 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 6,220 lbs | 8,532 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | mid | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S185 and TL8?
- Price: The S185 is $11,390 cheaper on average (37% savings).
- Power: The TL8 has 13 more horsepower (74 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lift Type: S185 uses vertical lift while TL8 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TL8 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 TL8s average 2,340 hours.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S185 or TL8? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S185 or TL8?
Choose the Bobcat S185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($11,390 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL8 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,900 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S185 and TL8 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $55,069 (2) |
| 2019 | — | $25,587 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $32,347 (9) |
| 2017 | — | $26,248 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $24,275 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $31,728 (18) |
| 2014 | — | $26,342 (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 TL8 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S185 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,162 (10) | $55,069 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $23,311 (18) | $33,418 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,210 (26) | $27,670 (20) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,972 (28) | $27,505 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,565 (64) | $26,646 (4) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S185 or TL8 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 TL8
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 Takeuchi TL8
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.