Caterpillar 246C vs John Deere 317: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 246C averages $20,251 CAD at auction, compared to $14,851 for the John Deere 317. That's a $5,399 difference. Based on 76 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The John Deere 317 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $5,399 less than the 246C.
Caterpillar 246C
SSL$20,251 CAD avg
$7,286
Low
$34,905
High
39
Sales
Avg 5,344 hours · 2007–2013 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 317
SSL$14,851 CAD avg
$4,830
Low
$27,032
High
37
Sales
Avg 2,271 hours · 2004–2009 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 246C and 317?
- Price: The 317 is $5,399 cheaper on average (27% savings).
- Usage: Used 246Cs average 5,344 hours while 317s average 2,271 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 246C or 317? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 246C or 317?
Choose the Caterpillar 246C if:
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,399 savings)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 246C and 317 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 246C | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | $27,179 (2) | — |
| 2012 | $23,133 (8) | — |
| 2011 | $15,420 (10) | — |
| 2010 | $25,021 (10) | — |
| 2009 | — | $9,691 (4) |
| 2008 | $11,542 (6) | $19,047 (10) |
| 2007 | $25,566 (3) | $13,695 (7) |
| 2006 | — | $17,759 (8) |
| 2005 | — | $11,614 (6) |
| 2004 | — | $6,313 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 246C and 317 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 246C | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $34,530 (2) | $19,469 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $27,768 (2) | $17,703 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $14,406 (2) | $12,247 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,295 (4) | $15,639 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,048 (27) | $9,389 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 246C or 317 in Canada?
Caterpillar 246C
All Caterpillar 246C listings →More Comparisons
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