Caterpillar 279C2 vs John Deere 328E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279C2 averages $38,738 CAD at auction, compared to $37,507 for the John Deere 328E. That's a $1,230 difference. Based on 20 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $1,230 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 →John Deere 328E
SSL$37,507 CAD avg
$33,396
Low
$42,098
High
6
Sales
Avg 1,714 hours · 2014–2015 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279C2 and 328E?
- Price: The 328E is $1,230 cheaper on average (3% savings).
- Track Type: 279C2 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 328E is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 279C2s average 3,407 hours while 328Es average 1,714 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279C2 or 328E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279C2 or 328E?
Choose the Caterpillar 279C2 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 328E if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($1,230 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279C2 and 328E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279C2 | John Deere 328E |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | $40,403 (2) |
| 2014 | — | $36,059 (4) |
| 2013 | $45,659 (6) | — |
| 2012 | $33,547 (8) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279C2 and 328E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279C2 | John Deere 328E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $40,403 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | — | $36,462 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $43,989 (6) | $35,657 (2) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,982 (4) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $30,618 (4) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
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