Caterpillar 259D vs John Deere 331G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D averages $37,695 CAD at auction, compared to $59,332 for the John Deere 331G. That's a $21,636 difference. Based on 158 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 259D is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $21,636 less than the 331G.
Caterpillar 259D
SSL$37,695 CAD avg
$3,719
Low
$69,069
High
118
Sales
Avg 3,341 hours · 2014–2019 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 331G
CTL$59,332 CAD avg
$28,082
Low
$83,036
High
40
Sales
Avg 1,876 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do 259D and 331G specs compare?
| Spec | Caterpillar 259D | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | — | 91 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | — | 3,000 lbs |
| Operating Weight | — | 11,205 lbs |
| Lift Type | — | vertical |
| Frame Size | — | large |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between 259D and 331G?
- Price: The 259D is $21,636 cheaper on average (36% savings).
- Track Type: 259D is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 331G is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 259Ds average 3,341 hours while 331Gs average 1,876 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D or 331G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D or 331G?
Choose the Caterpillar 259D if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($21,636 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 331G if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D and 331G prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,173 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $55,128 (6) |
| 2020 | — | $55,331 (6) |
| 2019 | $32,442 (14) | $69,698 (6) |
| 2018 | $43,257 (14) | — |
| 2017 | $35,434 (18) | $53,008 (10) |
| 2016 | $38,263 (34) | $58,502 (2) |
| 2015 | $39,315 (16) | — |
| 2014 | $41,361 (18) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D and 331G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $58,426 (2) | $55,662 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $47,805 (16) | $64,316 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,375 (32) | $63,395 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $35,611 (28) | $41,496 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $33,455 (30) | $48,576 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D or 331G in Canada?
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