Caterpillar 257B2 vs New Holland L185: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 257B2 averages $23,706 CAD at auction, compared to $20,679 for the New Holland L185. That's a $3,026 difference. Based on 20 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $3,026 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Caterpillar 257B2
CTL$23,706 CAD avg
$18,216
Low
$31,118
High
6
Sales
Avg 3,280 hours · 2008–2009 model years
Full price guide →New Holland L185
SSL$20,679 CAD avg
$5,768
Low
$42,802
High
14
Sales
Avg 3,007 hours · 2006–2008 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 257B2 and L185?
- Price: The L185 is $3,026 cheaper on average (13% savings).
- Track Type: 257B2 is a compact track loader (CTL) while L185 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
Both Caterpillar and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 257B2 or L185? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 257B2 or L185?
Choose the Caterpillar 257B2 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the New Holland L185 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($3,026 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do 257B2 and L185 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 257B2 | New Holland L185 |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | $18,803 (2) | — |
| 2008 | $31,079 (2) | $25,255 (8) |
| 2006 | — | $14,578 (6) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 257B2 and L185 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 257B2 | New Holland L185 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $21,235 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,079 (2) | $33,089 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $18,829 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,803 (2) | $20,454 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 257B2 or L185 in Canada?
Caterpillar 257B2
All Caterpillar 257B2 listings →New Holland L185
No active listings right now.
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