Bobcat S300 vs New Holland C232: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $39,742 for the New Holland C232. That's a $17,605 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the C232's 84 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,700 lb for the C232. Based on 126 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 $17,605 less than the C232. 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 →New Holland C232
CTL$39,742 CAD avg
$17,457
Low
$60,253
High
14
Sales
Avg 1,841 hours · 2011–2017 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and C232 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 84 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 10,085 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S300 and C232?
- Price: The S300 is $17,605 cheaper on average (44% savings).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 300 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S300 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while C232 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 C232s average 1,841 hours.
Both Bobcat and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or C232? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or C232?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($17,605 savings)
- 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 New Holland C232 if:
- You need more power (84 HP)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and C232 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | — | $52,192 (4) |
| 2014 | — | $32,575 (2) |
| 2013 | — | $45,914 (4) |
| 2012 | — | $18,756 (2) |
| 2011 | $17,640 (4) | $30,651 (2) |
| 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 C232 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $45,372 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | $32,575 (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 C232 in Canada?
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