Bobcat S250 vs New Holland C238: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $41,158 for the New Holland C238. That's a $19,003 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the C238's 90 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,200 lb for the C238. Based on 234 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 $19,003 less than the C238. The C238 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 15 HP or the higher 3,200 lb lifting capacity .
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 →New Holland C238
CTL$41,158 CAD avg
$1,745
Low
$67,805
High
28
Sales
Avg 1,529 hours · 2011–2016 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and C238 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 90 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 3,200 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 10,760 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S250 and C238?
- Price: The S250 is $19,003 cheaper on average (46% savings).
- Power: The C238 has 15 more horsepower (90 HP vs 75 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C238 lifts 700 lbs more (3,200 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S250 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C238 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S250s average 3,958 hours while C238s average 1,529 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or C238? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or C238?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($19,003 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland C238 if:
- You need more power (90 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,200 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and C238 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | — | $40,115 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $51,282 (10) |
| 2014 | — | $43,797 (4) |
| 2012 | — | $31,318 (6) |
| 2011 | $24,824 (4) | $30,680 (2) |
| 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 C238 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | New Holland C238 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $54,420 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $45,475 (12) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $35,857 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | $30,680 (2) |
| 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 C238 in Canada?
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