Caterpillar 257B vs John Deere 318E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 257B averages $24,517 CAD at auction, compared to $31,600 for the John Deere 318E. That's a $7,083 difference. Based on 54 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 257B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $7,083 less than the 318E.
Caterpillar 257B
CTL$24,517 CAD avg
$14,117
Low
$40,227
High
44
Sales
Avg 3,222 hours · 2004–2012 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 318E
SSL$31,600 CAD avg
$22,770
Low
$45,679
High
10
Sales
Avg 880 hours · 2014–2015 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 257B and 318E?
- Price: The 257B is $7,083 cheaper on average (22% savings).
- Track Type: 257B is a compact track loader (CTL) while 318E is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 257Bs average 3,222 hours while 318Es average 880 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 257B or 318E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 257B or 318E?
Choose the Caterpillar 257B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($7,083 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 318E if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 257B and 318E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 257B | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | $34,846 (6) |
| 2014 | — | $26,732 (4) |
| 2012 | $29,982 (2) | — |
| 2010 | $24,913 (6) | — |
| 2007 | $26,812 (10) | — |
| 2006 | $25,899 (6) | — |
| 2005 | $22,967 (8) | — |
| 2004 | $21,837 (12) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 257B and 318E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 257B | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $32,867 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $25,467 (10) | $26,534 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $23,790 (12) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $19,668 (4) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $26,123 (14) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 257B or 318E in Canada?
Caterpillar 257B
2005 Caterpillar 257B
N/A hrs · London
$32,900 CAD
None Caterpillar 257B
486 hrs · Strathcona County
$45,500 CAD
2005 Caterpillar 257B
2,245 hrs · Watford
$32,900 CAD
John Deere 318E
No active listings right now.
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