Bobcat S300 vs Takeuchi TL8: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $30,396 for the Takeuchi TL8. That's a $8,259 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the TL8's 74 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,900 lb for the TL8. Based on 159 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 $8,259 less than the TL8. 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 →Takeuchi TL8
CTL$30,396 CAD avg
$10,152
Low
$63,755
High
47
Sales
Avg 2,340 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S300 and TL8 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,900 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 8,532 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S300 and TL8?
- Price: The S300 is $8,259 cheaper on average (27% savings).
- Power: The S300 has 7 more horsepower (81 HP vs 74 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 1100 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S300 uses vertical lift while TL8 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S300 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TL8 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 TL8s average 2,340 hours.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or TL8? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or TL8?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($8,259 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 Takeuchi TL8 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S300 and TL8 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $55,069 (2) |
| 2019 | — | $25,587 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $32,347 (9) |
| 2017 | — | $26,248 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $24,275 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $31,728 (18) |
| 2014 | — | $26,342 (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 TL8 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $55,069 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $33,418 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $27,670 (20) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | $27,505 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,424 (54) | $26,646 (4) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S300 or TL8 in Canada?
Bobcat S300
2008 Bobcat S300
4,400 hrs · Ardrossan
$35,000 CAD
2006 Bobcat S300
1,700 hrs · Pentiction
$51,000 CAD
Takeuchi TL8
No active listings right now.
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Bobcat S300
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on Takeuchi TL8
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.