Caterpillar 259B3 vs New Holland L230: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259B3 averages $31,708 CAD at auction, compared to $30,681 for the New Holland L230. That's a $1,026 difference. Based on 49 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $1,026 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 →New Holland L230
SSL$30,681 CAD avg
$12,902
Low
$64,841
High
28
Sales
Avg 1,509 hours · 2012–2017 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259B3 and L230?
- Price: The L230 is $1,026 cheaper on average (3% savings).
- Track Type: 259B3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while L230 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 L230s average 1,509 hours.
Both Caterpillar and New Holland retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259B3 or L230? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259B3 or L230?
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 New Holland L230 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($1,026 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer New Holland's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259B3 and L230 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259B3 | New Holland L230 |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | — | $62,780 (2) |
| 2015 | — | $32,746 (4) |
| 2014 | — | $42,502 (2) |
| 2013 | $31,160 (7) | $23,664 (4) |
| 2012 | $33,108 (6) | $26,128 (14) |
| 2011 | $31,137 (8) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259B3 and L230 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259B3 | New Holland L230 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $43,282 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $36,132 (8) | $31,068 (10) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $28,171 (2) | $31,179 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $11,730 (1) | $28,108 (2) |
| 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 L230 in Canada?
Caterpillar 259B3
2012 Caterpillar 259B3
2,800 hrs · Glencoe
$27,500 CAD
2011 Caterpillar 259B3
6,071 hrs · Concord
$25,900 CAD
New Holland L230
No active listings right now.
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