Caterpillar 279D3 vs Takeuchi TL12R2: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D3 averages $47,719 CAD at auction, compared to $43,717 for the Takeuchi TL12R2. That's a $4,002 difference. Based on 26 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $4,002 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
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 →Takeuchi TL12R2
CTL$43,717 CAD avg
$23,771
Low
$89,562
High
15
Sales
Avg 2,026 hours · 2017–2020 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279D3 and TL12R2?
- Price: The TL12R2 is $4,002 cheaper on average (8% savings).
- Track Type: 279D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TL12R2 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
Both Caterpillar and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D3 or TL12R2? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D3 or TL12R2?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D3 if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL12R2 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($4,002 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D3 and TL12R2 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D3 | Takeuchi TL12R2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $55,199 (1) | — |
| 2021 | $29,979 (2) | — |
| 2020 | $47,814 (2) | $79,161 (2) |
| 2019 | $52,354 (6) | $48,345 (3) |
| 2018 | — | $31,169 (2) |
| 2017 | — | $38,463 (6) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D3 and TL12R2 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D3 | Takeuchi TL12R2 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $64,431 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $46,316 (4) | $62,506 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $31,224 (5) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,897 (4) | $33,716 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D3 or TL12R2 in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D3
2023 Caterpillar 279D3
1,000 hrs · Barrie
$110,000 CAD
2022 Caterpillar 279D3
3,562 hrs · Dartmouth
$55,600 CAD
Takeuchi TL12R2
No active listings right now.
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