Bobcat S300 vs John Deere 317G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $44,087 for the John Deere 317G. That's a $21,950 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the 317G's 65 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 317G. Based on 153 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 $21,950 less than the 317G. 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 →John Deere 317G
SSL$44,087 CAD avg
$20,700
Low
$85,197
High
41
Sales
Avg 1,408 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and 317G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 8,785 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S300 and 317G?
- Price: The S300 is $21,950 cheaper on average (50% savings).
- Power: The S300 has 16 more horsepower (81 HP vs 65 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 1150 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S300s average 4,246 hours while 317Gs average 1,408 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or 317G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or 317G?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($21,950 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 John Deere 317G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and 317G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $70,035 (6) |
| 2022 | — | $65,784 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $39,217 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $25,570 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $46,941 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $29,092 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $35,799 (7) |
| 2016 | — | $27,008 (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 317G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $62,151 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $28,705 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $30,351 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,424 (54) | $31,666 (3) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S300 or 317G in Canada?
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