Caterpillar 259D3 vs Caterpillar 287C: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D3 averages $56,219 CAD at auction, compared to $25,783 for the Caterpillar 287C. That's a $30,436 difference. Based on 78 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 287C is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $30,436 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 287C
SSL$25,783 CAD avg
$1,457
Low
$46,347
High
8
Sales
Avg 3,575 hours · 2008–2012 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259D3 and 287C?
- Price: The 287C is $30,436 cheaper on average (54% savings).
- Track Type: 259D3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 287C 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 287Cs average 3,575 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D3 or 287C? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D3 or 287C?
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 287C if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($30,436 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D3 and 287C prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 287C |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $67,473 (2) | — |
| 2023 | $62,505 (17) | — |
| 2022 | $66,385 (5) | — |
| 2021 | $58,168 (16) | — |
| 2020 | $52,232 (22) | — |
| 2019 | $40,765 (8) | — |
| 2012 | — | $45,943 (2) |
| 2008 | — | $19,063 (6) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D3 and 287C prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 287C |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $76,206 (19) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $58,349 (22) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,158 (15) | $37,138 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $41,303 (12) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $45,386 (2) | $27,370 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D3 or 287C 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 287C
No active listings right now.
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