Caterpillar 259D3 vs Caterpillar 279C2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D3 averages $56,219 CAD at auction, compared to $38,738 for the Caterpillar 279C2. That's a $17,481 difference. Based on 84 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 279C2 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $17,481 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 279C2
CTL$38,738 CAD avg
$28,841
Low
$62,237
High
14
Sales
Avg 3,407 hours · 2012–2013 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259D3 and 279C2?
- Price: The 279C2 is $17,481 cheaper on average (31% savings).
- Usage: Used 259D3s average 1,801 hours while 279C2s average 3,407 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D3 or 279C2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D3 or 279C2?
Choose the Caterpillar 259D3 if:
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 279C2 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($17,481 savings)
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D3 and 279C2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 279C2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $67,473 (2) | — |
| 2023 | $62,505 (17) | — |
| 2022 | $66,385 (5) | — |
| 2021 | $58,168 (16) | — |
| 2020 | $52,232 (22) | — |
| 2019 | $40,765 (8) | — |
| 2013 | — | $45,659 (6) |
| 2012 | — | $33,547 (8) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D3 and 279C2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 279C2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $76,206 (19) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $58,349 (22) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,158 (15) | $43,989 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $41,303 (12) | $38,982 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $45,386 (2) | $30,618 (4) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D3 or 279C2 in Canada?
Caterpillar 259D3
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,340 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,561 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
2021 Caterpillar 259D3
2,595 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$66,500 CAD
2023 Caterpillar 259D3
2,000 hrs · Edmonton
$81,000 CAD
Caterpillar 279C2
No active listings right now.
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