Bobcat S850 vs John Deere 324G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S850 averages $29,856 CAD at auction, compared to $46,031 for the John Deere 324G. That's a $16,174 difference. Power-wise, the S850 offers 100 HP versus the 324G's 74 HP. The S850 has 3,150 lb rated operating capacity vs 2,400 lb for the 324G. Based on 21 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S850 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $16,174 less than the 324G. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
Bobcat S850
SSL$29,856 CAD avg
$16,698
Low
$52,839
High
10
Sales
Avg 3,195 hours · 2011–2015 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 324G
SSL$46,031 CAD avg
$24,839
Low
$75,202
High
11
Sales
Avg 2,315 hours · 2019–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S850 and 324G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,150 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 9,590 lbs | 7,640 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S850 and 324G?
- Price: The S850 is $16,174 cheaper on average (35% savings).
- Power: The S850 has 26 more horsepower (100 HP vs 74 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S850 lifts 750 lbs more (3,150 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S850s average 3,195 hours while 324Gs average 2,315 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S850 or 324G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S850 or 324G?
Choose the Bobcat S850 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($16,174 savings)
- You need more power (100 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,150 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 324G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S850 and 324G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,376 (2) |
| 2022 | — | $26,834 (2) |
| 2021 | — | $36,844 (4) |
| 2019 | — | $54,181 (3) |
| 2015 | $16,946 (2) | — |
| 2014 | $37,131 (4) | — |
| 2013 | $32,844 (2) | — |
| 2011 | $25,228 (2) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S850 and 324G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 324G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $70,114 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $52,225 (2) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $29,036 (4) | $35,267 (3) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,037 (2) | $26,834 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $16,946 (2) | $33,207 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S850 or 324G in Canada?
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