Case 450C vs Caterpillar 242B3: Which Is the Better Value?

| Based on 44 verified Canadian auction sales

The Case 450C averages $30,409 CAD at auction, compared to $26,329 for the Caterpillar 242B3. That's a $4,080 difference. Based on 44 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.

The Verdict

Both machines are competitively priced with only a $4,080 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.

Case 450C

CTL

$30,409 CAD avg

$1,214

Low

$55,958

High

36

Sales

Avg 2,336 hours · 2005–2011 model years

Full price guide →

Caterpillar 242B3

SSL

$26,329 CAD avg

$23,529

Low

$29,297

High

8

Sales

Avg 1,852 hours · 2012–2013 model years

Full price guide →

What are the key differences between 450C and 242B3?

  • Price: The 242B3 is $4,080 cheaper on average (13% savings).
  • Track Type: 450C is a compact track loader (CTL) while 242B3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
  • Usage: Used 450Cs average 2,336 hours while 242B3s average 1,852 hours.

Both Case and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.

Looking for a 450C or 242B3? Check current listings with Deal Scores.

Browse 450C Listings Browse 242B3 Listings All Listings

Which is the better value: 450C or 242B3?

Choose the Case 450C if:

  • You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
  • You prefer Case's dealer network and parts availability
Better Value

Choose the Caterpillar 242B3 if:

  • You want lower upfront cost ($4,080 savings)
  • You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
  • You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability

How do 450C and 242B3 prices compare by year?

Case 450C vs Caterpillar 242B3 prices by model year (CAD)
Year Case 450C Caterpillar 242B3
2013 — $26,032 (2)
2012 — $26,428 (6)
2011 $26,055 (2) —
2010 $34,710 (4) —
2008 $21,018 (8) —
2007 $36,770 (8) —
2006 $36,104 (8) —
2005 $31,530 (2) —

Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.

How do 450C and 242B3 prices compare by hours?

Case 450C vs Caterpillar 242B3 prices by hours (CAD)
Hours Case 450C Caterpillar 242B3
0-999 hrs $32,418 (6) $26,032 (2)
1,000-1,999 hrs $35,408 (10) $25,297 (4)
2,000-2,999 hrs $38,529 (6) —
3,000-3,999 hrs $21,740 (6) —
4,000+ hrs $29,477 (4) $28,690 (2)

Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.

More Comparisons

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Related Guides

Depreciation Guide

See which brands hold value best

True Cost of Ownership

Complete 5-year cost breakdown

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