Caterpillar 289C vs John Deere 317: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 289C averages $29,529 CAD at auction, compared to $14,851 for the John Deere 317. That's a $14,677 difference. Based on 91 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The John Deere 317 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $14,677 less than the 289C.
Caterpillar 289C
CTL$29,529 CAD avg
$4,857
Low
$47,058
High
54
Sales
Avg 5,053 hours · 2008–2013 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 317
SSL$14,851 CAD avg
$4,830
Low
$27,032
High
37
Sales
Avg 2,271 hours · 2004–2009 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 289C and 317?
- Price: The 317 is $14,677 cheaper on average (50% savings).
- Track Type: 289C is a compact track loader (CTL) while 317 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 289Cs average 5,053 hours while 317s average 2,271 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 289C or 317? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 289C or 317?
Choose the Caterpillar 289C if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($14,677 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 289C and 317 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 289C | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | $38,279 (2) | — |
| 2012 | $24,341 (20) | — |
| 2011 | $31,103 (14) | — |
| 2010 | $33,984 (6) | — |
| 2009 | $27,909 (6) | $9,691 (4) |
| 2008 | $37,393 (6) | $19,047 (10) |
| 2007 | — | $13,695 (7) |
| 2006 | — | $17,759 (8) |
| 2005 | — | $11,614 (6) |
| 2004 | — | $6,313 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 289C and 317 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 289C | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $38,715 (2) | $19,469 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $40,610 (2) | $17,703 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $39,642 (4) | $12,247 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,526 (6) | $15,639 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $29,346 (34) | $9,389 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 289C or 317 in Canada?
Caterpillar 289C
All Caterpillar 289C listings →More Comparisons
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