Bobcat S250 vs Bobcat S450: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $27,371 for the Bobcat S450. That's a $5,216 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the S450's 46 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,300 lb for the S450. Based on 221 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S250 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $5,216 less than the S450. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
Bobcat S250
SSL$22,154 CAD avg
$416
Low
$57,314
High
206
Sales
Avg 3,958 hours · 2002–2011 model years
Full price guide →Bobcat S450
SSL$27,371 CAD avg
$15,938
Low
$46,423
High
15
Sales
Avg 1,463 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and S450 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 5,215 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | large | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S250 and S450?
- Price: The S250 is $5,216 cheaper on average (19% savings).
- Power: The S250 has 29 more horsepower (75 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S250 lifts 1200 lbs more (2,500 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S250 uses vertical lift while S450 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S250s average 3,958 hours while S450s average 1,463 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or S450? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or S450?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,216 savings)
- You need more power (75 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,500 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S450 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and S450 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $41,814 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $20,700 (1) |
| 2016 | — | $21,800 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $16,399 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $25,651 (4) |
| 2011 | $24,824 (4) | — |
| 2010 | $28,545 (6) | — |
| 2009 | $26,139 (8) | — |
| 2008 | $20,976 (30) | — |
| 2007 | $22,072 (26) | — |
| 2006 | $24,503 (34) | — |
| 2005 | $23,239 (16) | — |
| 2004 | $23,061 (26) | — |
| 2003 | $21,189 (24) | — |
| 2002 | $21,210 (24) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S250 and S450 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $45,602 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $24,566 (13) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,642 (88) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S250 or S450 in Canada?
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