Caterpillar 259B3 vs Caterpillar 345B: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259B3 averages $31,708 CAD at auction, compared to $9,075 for the Caterpillar 345B. That's a $22,632 difference. Based on 27 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 345B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $22,632 less than the 259B3.
Caterpillar 259B3
CTL$31,708 CAD avg
$11,730
Low
$46,299
High
21
Sales
Avg 3,249 hours · 2011–2013 model years
Full price guide →Caterpillar 345B
SSL$9,075 CAD avg
$4,705
Low
$12,295
High
6
Sales
Avg 48 hours · 2015–2015 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259B3 and 345B?
- Price: The 345B is $22,632 cheaper on average (71% savings).
- Track Type: 259B3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 345B is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 259B3s average 3,249 hours while 345Bs average 48 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259B3 or 345B? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259B3 or 345B?
Choose the Caterpillar 259B3 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 345B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($22,632 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259B3 and 345B prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259B3 | Caterpillar 345B |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | $8,480 (4) |
| 2013 | $31,160 (7) | — |
| 2012 | $33,108 (6) | — |
| 2011 | $31,137 (8) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259B3 and 345B prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259B3 | Caterpillar 345B |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $4,836 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $36,132 (8) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $28,171 (2) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $11,730 (1) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $30,873 (10) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259B3 or 345B in Canada?
Caterpillar 259B3
2012 Caterpillar 259B3
2,800 hrs · Glencoe
$27,500 CAD
2011 Caterpillar 259B3
6,071 hrs · Concord
$25,900 CAD
Caterpillar 345B
No active listings right now.
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