Caterpillar 279D3 vs Caterpillar 287C: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D3 averages $47,719 CAD at auction, compared to $25,783 for the Caterpillar 287C. That's a $21,936 difference. Based on 19 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 $21,936 less than the 279D3.
Caterpillar 279D3
SSL$47,719 CAD avg
$28,841
Low
$66,033
High
11
Sales
Avg 1,925 hours · 2019–2022 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 279D3 and 287C?
- Price: The 287C is $21,936 cheaper on average (46% savings).
- Usage: Used 279D3s average 1,925 hours while 287Cs average 3,575 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D3 or 287C? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D3 or 287C?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D3 if:
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 287C if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($21,936 savings)
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D3 and 287C prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 287C |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $55,199 (1) | — |
| 2021 | $29,979 (2) | — |
| 2020 | $47,814 (2) | — |
| 2019 | $52,354 (6) | — |
| 2012 | — | $45,943 (2) |
| 2008 | — | $19,063 (6) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D3 and 287C prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 287C |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $64,431 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $46,316 (4) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $37,138 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,897 (4) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | — | $27,370 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D3 or 287C in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D3
2023 Caterpillar 279D3
1,000 hrs · Barrie
$110,000 CAD
2022 Caterpillar 279D3
3,562 hrs · Dartmouth
$55,600 CAD
None Caterpillar 279D3
N/A hrs · Komoka
$105,000 CAD
Caterpillar 287C
No active listings right now.
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Caterpillar 279D3
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on Caterpillar 287C
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.