Bobcat S300 vs John Deere 318G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $24,411 for the John Deere 318G. That's a $2,274 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the 318G's 65 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 318G. Based on 121 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $2,274 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 318G
SSL$24,411 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$31,870
High
9
Sales
Avg 1,418 hours · 2016–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and 318G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 6,830 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S300 and 318G?
- Price: The S300 is $2,274 cheaper on average (9% 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 318Gs average 1,418 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or 318G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or 318G?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($2,274 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 318G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and 318G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $11,040 (1) |
| 2017 | — | $29,976 (2) |
| 2016 | — | $24,785 (6) |
| 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 318G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $29,976 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $24,785 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $11,040 (1) |
| 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 318G in Canada?
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