Caterpillar 279D3 vs Caterpillar 289C2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D3 averages $47,719 CAD at auction, compared to $38,274 for the Caterpillar 289C2. That's a $9,445 difference. Based on 51 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 289C2 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $9,445 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 289C2
CTL$38,274 CAD avg
$25,805
Low
$66,776
High
40
Sales
Avg 4,103 hours · 2009–2013 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279D3 and 289C2?
- Price: The 289C2 is $9,445 cheaper on average (20% savings).
- Track Type: 279D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 289C2 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 279D3s average 1,925 hours while 289C2s average 4,103 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D3 or 289C2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D3 or 289C2?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D3 if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 289C2 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($9,445 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D3 and 289C2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 289C2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $55,199 (1) | — |
| 2021 | $29,979 (2) | — |
| 2020 | $47,814 (2) | — |
| 2019 | $52,354 (6) | — |
| 2013 | — | $37,077 (22) |
| 2012 | — | $41,430 (16) |
| 2009 | — | $26,184 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D3 and 289C2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 289C2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $64,431 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $46,316 (4) | $55,462 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $39,167 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,897 (4) | $38,984 (10) |
| 4,000+ hrs | — | $34,778 (18) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D3 or 289C2 in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D3
2022 Caterpillar 279D3
3,562 hrs · Dartmouth
$55,600 CAD
None Caterpillar 279D3
N/A hrs · Komoka
$105,000 CAD
Caterpillar 289C2
No active listings right now.
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