Bobcat S450 vs New Holland C232: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S450 averages $27,371 CAD at auction, compared to $39,742 for the New Holland C232. That's a $12,371 difference. Power-wise, the S450 offers 46 HP versus the C232's 84 HP. The S450 has 1,300 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,700 lb for the C232. Based on 29 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S450 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $12,371 less than the C232. The C232 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 38 HP or the higher 2,700 lb lifting capacity .
Bobcat S450
SSL$27,371 CAD avg
$15,938
Low
$46,423
High
15
Sales
Avg 1,463 hours · 2014–2020 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 S450 and C232 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S450 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 84 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,300 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,215 lbs | 10,085 lbs |
| Lift Type | radial | vertical |
| Frame Size | small | mid |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S450 and C232?
- Price: The S450 is $12,371 cheaper on average (31% savings).
- Power: The C232 has 38 more horsepower (84 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C232 lifts 1400 lbs more (2,700 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S450 uses radial lift while C232 uses vertical lift.
- Track Type: S450 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 S450s average 1,463 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 S450 or C232? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S450 or C232?
Choose the Bobcat S450 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($12,371 savings)
- 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 need higher lifting capacity (2,700 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do S450 and C232 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S450 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $41,814 (4) | — |
| 2019 | $20,700 (1) | — |
| 2017 | — | $52,192 (4) |
| 2016 | $21,800 (4) | — |
| 2015 | $16,399 (2) | — |
| 2014 | $25,651 (4) | $32,575 (2) |
| 2013 | — | $45,914 (4) |
| 2012 | — | $18,756 (2) |
| 2011 | — | $30,651 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S450 and C232 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S450 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $45,602 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $24,566 (13) | $45,372 (10) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | — | $32,575 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S450 or C232 in Canada?
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