Caterpillar 259D3 vs Caterpillar 272D2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D3 averages $56,219 CAD at auction, compared to $39,317 for the Caterpillar 272D2. That's a $16,901 difference. Based on 90 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 272D2 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $16,901 less than the 259D3.
Caterpillar 259D3
CTL$56,219 CAD avg
$18,630
Low
$100,950
High
70
Sales
Avg 1,801 hours · 2019–2024 model years
Full price guide →Caterpillar 272D2
SSL$39,317 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$62,996
High
20
Sales
Avg 2,973 hours · 2015–2019 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259D3 and 272D2?
- Price: The 272D2 is $16,901 cheaper on average (30% savings).
- Track Type: 259D3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 272D2 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 259D3s average 1,801 hours while 272D2s average 2,973 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D3 or 272D2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D3 or 272D2?
Choose the Caterpillar 259D3 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 272D2 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($16,901 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D3 and 272D2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 272D2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $67,473 (2) | — |
| 2023 | $62,505 (17) | — |
| 2022 | $66,385 (5) | — |
| 2021 | $58,168 (16) | — |
| 2020 | $52,232 (22) | — |
| 2019 | $40,765 (8) | $11,040 (1) |
| 2018 | — | $46,433 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $13,799 (1) |
| 2016 | — | $29,109 (4) |
| 2015 | — | $51,286 (6) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D3 and 272D2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 272D2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $76,206 (19) | $55,118 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $58,349 (22) | $52,403 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,158 (15) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $41,303 (12) | $35,406 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $45,386 (2) | $21,223 (8) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D3 or 272D2 in Canada?
Caterpillar 259D3
2021 Caterpillar 259D3
2,345 hrs · Ameliasburg
$56,700 CAD
2023 Caterpillar 259D3
2,026 hrs · Edmonton
$59,500 CAD
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,340 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,561 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
Caterpillar 272D2
No active listings right now.
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