Bobcat S550 vs John Deere 318G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S550 averages $23,450 CAD at auction, compared to $24,411 for the John Deere 318G. Power-wise, the S550 offers 46 HP versus the 318G's 65 HP. The S550 has 1,550 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 318G. Based on 33 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $961 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 318G
SSL$24,411 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$31,870
High
9
Sales
Avg 1,418 hours · 2016–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S550 and 318G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,670 lbs | 6,830 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | small | mid |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S550 and 318G?
- Power: The 318G has 19 more horsepower (65 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 318G lifts 300 lbs more (1,850 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S550s average 2,354 hours while 318Gs average 1,418 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S550 or 318G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S550 or 318G?
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($961 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 318G 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 318G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $10,994 (3) | $11,040 (1) |
| 2019 | $15,717 (4) | — |
| 2018 | $36,125 (4) | — |
| 2017 | $26,909 (4) | $29,976 (2) |
| 2016 | $19,974 (5) | $24,785 (6) |
| 2015 | $28,738 (4) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S550 and 318G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S550 | John Deere 318G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $47,225 (2) | $29,976 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $20,665 (11) | $24,785 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $24,334 (6) | $11,040 (1) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,083 (3) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $20,394 (2) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S550 or 318G in Canada?
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