Caterpillar 279C vs John Deere 328D: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279C averages $35,697 CAD at auction, compared to $31,449 for the John Deere 328D. That's a $4,247 difference. Based on 48 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $4,247 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Caterpillar 279C
CTL$35,697 CAD avg
$13,206
Low
$62,237
High
30
Sales
Avg 4,492 hours · 2009–2013 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 328D
SSL$31,449 CAD avg
$13,054
Low
$62,850
High
18
Sales
Avg 2,297 hours · 2010–2012 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279C and 328D?
- Price: The 328D is $4,247 cheaper on average (12% savings).
- Track Type: 279C is a compact track loader (CTL) while 328D is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 279Cs average 4,492 hours while 328Ds average 2,297 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279C or 328D? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279C or 328D?
Choose the Caterpillar 279C if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 328D if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($4,247 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279C and 328D prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279C | John Deere 328D |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | $35,424 (2) | — |
| 2012 | — | $17,643 (4) |
| 2011 | $32,391 (8) | $31,358 (10) |
| 2010 | $40,846 (14) | $45,484 (4) |
| 2009 | $28,181 (6) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279C and 328D prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279C | John Deere 328D |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $34,636 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $56,664 (2) | $42,768 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $39,394 (2) | $34,823 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,959 (12) | $17,643 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $29,378 (14) | $14,071 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279C or 328D in Canada?
Caterpillar 279C
2015 Caterpillar 279C
4,528 hrs · Olds
$39,500 CAD
2012 Caterpillar 279C
1,773 hrs · Little Rapids
$42,000 CAD
John Deere 328D
No active listings right now.
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