Bobcat S250 vs John Deere 318G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $24,411 for the John Deere 318G. That's a $2,256 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the 318G's 65 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 318G. Based on 215 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $2,256 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 318G
SSL$24,411 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$31,870
High
9
Sales
Avg 1,418 hours · 2016–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and 318G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 6,830 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S250 and 318G?
- Price: The S250 is $2,256 cheaper on average (9% 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 318Gs average 1,418 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or 318G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or 318G?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($2,256 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 318G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and 318G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $11,040 (1) |
| 2017 | — | $29,976 (2) |
| 2016 | — | $24,785 (6) |
| 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 318G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $29,976 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $24,785 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $11,040 (1) |
| 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 318G in Canada?
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Bobcat S250
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on John Deere 318G
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.