Caterpillar 246B vs John Deere 320: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 246B averages $20,827 CAD at auction, compared to $17,566 for the John Deere 320. That's a $3,261 difference. Based on 48 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $3,261 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Caterpillar 246B
SSL$20,827 CAD avg
$14,724
Low
$29,891
High
16
Sales
Avg 3,676 hours · 2004–2007 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 320
CTL$17,566 CAD avg
$7,286
Low
$27,192
High
32
Sales
Avg 2,313 hours · 2005–2009 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 246B and 320?
- Price: The 320 is $3,261 cheaper on average (16% savings).
- Track Type: 246B is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 320 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 246Bs average 3,676 hours while 320s average 2,313 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 246B or 320? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 246B or 320?
Choose the Caterpillar 246B if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 320 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($3,261 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 246B and 320 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 246B | John Deere 320 |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | — | $23,374 (2) |
| 2007 | $20,147 (2) | $15,062 (4) |
| 2006 | — | $16,678 (12) |
| 2005 | $19,591 (10) | $18,792 (12) |
| 2004 | $24,258 (4) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 246B and 320 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 246B | John Deere 320 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $28,987 (2) | $14,990 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $26,128 (2) | $22,521 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $16,504 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $17,992 (2) | $15,281 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,332 (6) | $17,681 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 246B or 320 in Canada?
Caterpillar 246B
No active listings right now.
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Caterpillar 246B
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on John Deere 320
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.