Bobcat S250 vs John Deere 317G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $44,087 for the John Deere 317G. That's a $21,932 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the 317G's 65 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 317G. Based on 247 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 $21,932 less than the 317G. 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 →John Deere 317G
SSL$44,087 CAD avg
$20,700
Low
$85,197
High
41
Sales
Avg 1,408 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and 317G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 8,785 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S250 and 317G?
- Price: The S250 is $21,932 cheaper on average (50% savings).
- Power: The S250 has 10 more horsepower (75 HP vs 65 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S250 lifts 650 lbs more (2,500 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S250s average 3,958 hours while 317Gs average 1,408 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or 317G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or 317G?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($21,932 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 John Deere 317G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and 317G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $70,035 (6) |
| 2022 | — | $65,784 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $39,217 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $25,570 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $46,941 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $29,092 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $35,799 (7) |
| 2016 | — | $27,008 (2) |
| 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 317G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $62,151 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $28,705 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $30,351 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,642 (88) | $31,666 (3) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S250 or 317G in Canada?
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