Caterpillar 259D3 vs John Deere 318E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D3 averages $56,219 CAD at auction, compared to $31,600 for the John Deere 318E. That's a $24,619 difference. Based on 80 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The John Deere 318E is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $24,619 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 →John Deere 318E
SSL$31,600 CAD avg
$22,770
Low
$45,679
High
10
Sales
Avg 880 hours · 2014–2015 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259D3 and 318E?
- Price: The 318E is $24,619 cheaper on average (44% savings).
- Track Type: 259D3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 318E 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 318Es average 880 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D3 or 318E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D3 or 318E?
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 John Deere 318E if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($24,619 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D3 and 318E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D3 | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $67,473 (2) | — |
| 2023 | $62,505 (17) | — |
| 2022 | $66,385 (5) | — |
| 2021 | $58,168 (16) | — |
| 2020 | $52,232 (22) | — |
| 2019 | $40,765 (8) | — |
| 2015 | — | $34,846 (6) |
| 2014 | — | $26,732 (4) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D3 and 318E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D3 | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $76,206 (19) | $32,867 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $58,349 (22) | $26,534 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,158 (15) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $41,303 (12) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $45,386 (2) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D3 or 318E 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
John Deere 318E
No active listings right now.
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