Bobcat S300 vs Bobcat T450: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $32,160 for the Bobcat T450. That's a $10,023 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the T450's 61 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,400 lb for the T450. Based on 142 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 $10,023 less than the T450. 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 T450
CTL$32,160 CAD avg
$10,777
Low
$56,165
High
30
Sales
Avg 1,784 hours · 2014–2022 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and T450 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat T450 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 61 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 7,065 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | large | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S300 and T450?
- Price: The S300 is $10,023 cheaper on average (31% savings).
- Power: The S300 has 20 more horsepower (81 HP vs 61 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 1600 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S300 uses vertical lift while T450 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S300 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while T450 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S300s average 4,246 hours while T450s average 1,784 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or T450? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or T450?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($10,023 savings)
- You need more power (81 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,000 lbs)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat T450 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and T450 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat T450 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | — | $41,943 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $39,997 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $30,257 (4) |
| 2017 | — | $32,994 (6) |
| 2016 | — | $33,662 (2) |
| 2015 | — | $24,848 (8) |
| 2014 | — | $27,908 (2) |
| 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 T450 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat T450 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $43,015 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $32,075 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $30,291 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | $11,227 (2) |
| 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 T450 in Canada?
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