Bobcat S650 vs Kubota SVL97-2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S650 averages $30,170 CAD at auction, compared to $64,345 for the Kubota SVL97-2. That's a $34,174 difference. Power-wise, the S650 offers 74 HP versus the SVL97-2's 96 HP. The S650 has 2,200 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,400 lb for the SVL97-2. Based on 186 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S650 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $34,174 less than the SVL97-2. The SVL97-2 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 22 HP or the higher 3,400 lb lifting capacity .
Bobcat S650
SSL$30,170 CAD avg
$2,622
Low
$76,891
High
150
Sales
Avg 2,838 hours · 2010–2023 model years
Full price guide →Kubota SVL97-2
CTL$64,345 CAD avg
$11,536
Low
$116,423
High
36
Sales
Avg 1,019 hours · 2020–2025 model years
Full price guide →How do S650 and SVL97-2 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S650 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 74 hp | 96 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,200 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,555 lbs | 12,470 lbs |
| Lift Type | radial | vertical |
| Frame Size | mid | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S650 and SVL97-2?
- Price: The S650 is $34,174 cheaper on average (53% savings).
- Power: The SVL97-2 has 22 more horsepower (96 HP vs 74 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The SVL97-2 lifts 1200 lbs more (3,400 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S650 uses radial lift while SVL97-2 uses vertical lift.
- Track Type: S650 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while SVL97-2 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S650s average 2,838 hours while SVL97-2s average 1,019 hours.
Both Bobcat and Kubota retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S650 or SVL97-2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S650 or SVL97-2?
Choose the Bobcat S650 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($34,174 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Kubota SVL97-2 if:
- You need more power (96 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,400 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Kubota's dealer network and parts availability
How do S650 and SVL97-2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S650 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | — | $24,839 (1) |
| 2023 | $64,829 (2) | $50,835 (8) |
| 2022 | — | $79,443 (13) |
| 2021 | — | $80,018 (6) |
| 2020 | $75,257 (2) | $39,363 (2) |
| 2019 | $41,116 (15) | — |
| 2018 | $30,968 (4) | — |
| 2017 | $33,870 (4) | — |
| 2016 | $31,346 (22) | — |
| 2015 | $27,056 (23) | — |
| 2014 | $28,387 (38) | — |
| 2013 | $24,535 (12) | — |
| 2012 | $26,569 (8) | — |
| 2011 | $20,147 (8) | — |
| 2010 | $27,817 (10) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S650 and SVL97-2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S650 | Kubota SVL97-2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $48,935 (18) | $83,184 (20) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $35,423 (34) | $25,888 (5) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $29,489 (33) | $52,875 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $28,488 (24) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,654 (28) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S650 or SVL97-2 in Canada?
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