Bobcat S550 vs John Deere 317G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S550 averages $23,450 CAD at auction, compared to $44,087 for the John Deere 317G. That's a $20,637 difference. Power-wise, the S550 offers 46 HP versus the 317G's 65 HP. The S550 has 1,550 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 317G. Based on 65 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S550 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $20,637 less than the 317G. The 317G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 19 HP or the higher 1,850 lb lifting capacity .
Bobcat S550
SSL$23,450 CAD avg
$1,931
Low
$47,816
High
24
Sales
Avg 2,354 hours · 2015–2020 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 317G
SSL$44,087 CAD avg
$20,700
Low
$85,197
High
41
Sales
Avg 1,408 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S550 and 317G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,670 lbs | 8,785 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | small | mid |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S550 and 317G?
- Price: The S550 is $20,637 cheaper on average (47% savings).
- Power: The 317G has 19 more horsepower (65 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 317G lifts 300 lbs more (1,850 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S550s average 2,354 hours while 317Gs average 1,408 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S550 or 317G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S550 or 317G?
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($20,637 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317G if:
- You need more power (65 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,850 lbs)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S550 and 317G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $70,035 (6) |
| 2022 | — | $65,784 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $39,217 (2) |
| 2020 | $10,994 (3) | $25,570 (6) |
| 2019 | $15,717 (4) | $46,941 (6) |
| 2018 | $36,125 (4) | $29,092 (6) |
| 2017 | $26,909 (4) | $35,799 (7) |
| 2016 | $19,974 (5) | $27,008 (2) |
| 2015 | $28,738 (4) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S550 and 317G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $47,225 (2) | $62,151 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $20,665 (11) | $28,705 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $24,334 (6) | $30,351 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,083 (3) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $20,394 (2) | $31,666 (3) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S550 or 317G in Canada?
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