Bobcat S550 vs New Holland C232: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S550 averages $23,450 CAD at auction, compared to $39,742 for the New Holland C232. That's a $16,291 difference. Power-wise, the S550 offers 46 HP versus the C232's 84 HP. The S550 has 1,550 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,700 lb for the C232. Based on 38 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 $16,291 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 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 →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 S550 and C232 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S550 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 84 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,670 lbs | 10,085 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | small | mid |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S550 and C232?
- Price: The S550 is $16,291 cheaper on average (41% savings).
- Power: The C232 has 38 more horsepower (84 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The C232 lifts 1150 lbs more (2,700 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S550 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 S550s average 2,354 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 S550 or C232? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S550 or C232?
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($16,291 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 S550 and C232 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S550 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $10,994 (3) | — |
| 2019 | $15,717 (4) | — |
| 2018 | $36,125 (4) | — |
| 2017 | $26,909 (4) | $52,192 (4) |
| 2016 | $19,974 (5) | — |
| 2015 | $28,738 (4) | — |
| 2014 | — | $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 S550 and C232 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S550 | New Holland C232 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $47,225 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $20,665 (11) | $45,372 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $24,334 (6) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,083 (3) | $32,575 (2) |
| 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 C232 in Canada?
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