Bobcat S300 vs John Deere 331G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $59,332 for the John Deere 331G. That's a $37,195 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the 331G's 91 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,000 lb for the 331G. Based on 152 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 $37,195 less than the 331G. The 331G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 10 HP .
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 331G
CTL$59,332 CAD avg
$28,082
Low
$83,036
High
40
Sales
Avg 1,876 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and 331G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 91 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 11,205 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S300 and 331G?
- Price: The S300 is $37,195 cheaper on average (63% savings).
- Power: The 331G has 10 more horsepower (91 HP vs 81 HP).
- Track Type: S300 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 331G 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 331Gs average 1,876 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or 331G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or 331G?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($37,195 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 331G if:
- You need more power (91 HP)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and 331G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,173 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $55,128 (6) |
| 2020 | — | $55,331 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $69,698 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $53,008 (10) |
| 2016 | — | $58,502 (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 331G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $55,662 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $64,316 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $63,395 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | $41,496 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,424 (54) | $48,576 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S300 or 331G in Canada?
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