Bobcat S300 vs Bobcat S450: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $27,371 for the Bobcat S450. That's a $5,234 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the S450's 46 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,300 lb for the S450. Based on 127 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S300 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $5,234 less than the S450. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
Bobcat S300
SSL$22,136 CAD avg
$15
Low
$49,061
High
112
Sales
Avg 4,246 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 S300 and S450 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 5,215 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | large | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S300 and S450?
- Price: The S300 is $5,234 cheaper on average (19% savings).
- Power: The S300 has 35 more horsepower (81 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 1700 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S300 uses vertical lift while S450 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S300s average 4,246 hours while S450s average 1,463 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or S450? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or S450?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,234 savings)
- You need more power (81 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,000 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 S300 and S450 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $41,814 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $20,700 (1) |
| 2016 | — | $21,800 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $16,399 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $25,651 (4) |
| 2011 | $17,640 (4) | — |
| 2010 | $23,648 (8) | — |
| 2009 | $17,730 (8) | — |
| 2008 | $28,758 (14) | — |
| 2007 | $26,192 (14) | — |
| 2006 | $18,890 (14) | — |
| 2005 | $25,551 (20) | — |
| 2004 | $19,556 (12) | — |
| 2003 | $26,828 (4) | — |
| 2002 | $18,157 (8) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S300 and S450 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat S450 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $45,602 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $24,566 (13) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,424 (54) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S300 or S450 in Canada?
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