Bobcat S250 vs Takeuchi TL8: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $30,396 for the Takeuchi TL8. That's a $8,241 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the TL8's 74 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,900 lb for the TL8. Based on 253 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 $8,241 less than the TL8. 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 →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 S250 and TL8 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,900 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 8,532 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S250 and TL8?
- Price: The S250 is $8,241 cheaper on average (27% savings).
- Lifting Capacity: The S250 lifts 600 lbs more (2,500 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S250 uses vertical lift while TL8 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S250 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 S250s average 3,958 hours while TL8s average 2,340 hours.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or TL8? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or TL8?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($8,241 savings)
- You need more power (75 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,500 lbs)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL8 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and TL8 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | 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) |
| 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 TL8 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $55,069 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $33,418 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $27,670 (20) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | $27,505 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,642 (88) | $26,646 (4) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S250 or TL8 in Canada?
Bobcat S250
2006 Bobcat S250
N/A hrs · Edmonton
$22,900 CAD
2006 Bobcat S250
N/A hrs · Regina
$22,900 CAD
2006 Bobcat S250
N/A hrs · Winnipeg
$22,900 CAD
2006 Bobcat S250
N/A hrs · Toronto
$22,900 CAD
Takeuchi TL8
No active listings right now.
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