Bobcat S850 vs John Deere 317G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S850 averages $29,856 CAD at auction, compared to $44,087 for the John Deere 317G. That's a $14,230 difference. Power-wise, the S850 offers 100 HP versus the 317G's 65 HP. The S850 has 3,150 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,850 lb for the 317G. Based on 51 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 $14,230 less than the 317G. 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 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 S850 and 317G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 65 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,150 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 9,590 lbs | 8,785 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | mid |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S850 and 317G?
- Price: The S850 is $14,230 cheaper on average (32% savings).
- Power: The S850 has 35 more horsepower (100 HP vs 65 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S850 lifts 1300 lbs more (3,150 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S850s average 3,195 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 S850 or 317G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S850 or 317G?
Choose the Bobcat S850 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($14,230 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 317G if:
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S850 and 317G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $70,035 (6) |
| 2022 | — | $65,784 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $39,217 (2) |
| 2020 | — | $25,570 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $46,941 (6) |
| 2018 | — | $29,092 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $35,799 (7) |
| 2016 | — | $27,008 (2) |
| 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 317G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 317G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $62,151 (18) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $52,225 (2) | $28,705 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $29,036 (4) | $30,351 (12) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,037 (2) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $16,946 (2) | $31,666 (3) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S850 or 317G in Canada?
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