Caterpillar 279D vs John Deere 318E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D averages $37,208 CAD at auction, compared to $31,600 for the John Deere 318E. That's a $5,607 difference. Based on 58 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 $5,607 less than the 279D.
Caterpillar 279D
CTL$37,208 CAD avg
$11,040
Low
$61,060
High
48
Sales
Avg 4,298 hours · 2014–2019 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 279D and 318E?
- Price: The 318E is $5,607 cheaper on average (15% savings).
- Track Type: 279D 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 279Ds average 4,298 hours while 318Es average 880 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D or 318E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D or 318E?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D 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 ($5,607 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D and 318E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $30,258 (7) | — |
| 2018 | $18,630 (1) | — |
| 2017 | $42,088 (16) | — |
| 2016 | $46,054 (8) | — |
| 2015 | $27,730 (10) | $34,846 (6) |
| 2014 | $39,401 (6) | $26,732 (4) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D and 318E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $32,867 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $49,990 (4) | $26,534 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $49,078 (10) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $39,623 (6) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $31,775 (24) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D or 318E in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D
2017 Caterpillar 279D
5,784 hrs · Princeville
$36,500 CAD
2018 Caterpillar 279D
6,272 hrs · Princeville
$34,500 CAD
2014 Caterpillar 279D
5,123 hrs · Vernon
$48,000 CAD
2014 Caterpillar 279D
5,123 hrs · Vernon
$48,000 CAD
John Deere 318E
No active listings right now.
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