Caterpillar 259B3 vs John Deere 320E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259B3 averages $31,708 CAD at auction, compared to $30,760 for the John Deere 320E. Based on 39 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $947 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 →John Deere 320E
SSL$30,760 CAD avg
$18,216
Low
$46,043
High
18
Sales
Avg 1,796 hours · 2014–2017 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259B3 and 320E?
- Track Type: 259B3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 320E 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 320Es average 1,796 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259B3 or 320E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259B3 or 320E?
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 John Deere 320E if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($947 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259B3 and 320E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259B3 | John Deere 320E |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | — | $33,925 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $28,214 (6) |
| 2014 | — | $31,087 (8) |
| 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 320E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259B3 | John Deere 320E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $41,722 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $36,132 (8) | $33,821 (8) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $28,171 (2) | $24,958 (8) |
| 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 320E in Canada?
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