Bobcat S86 vs Cat 272D3

Bobcat

Bobcat S86

$82,000

4.7★ (460)

Caterpillar

$82,000

4.6★ (380)

Quick take: The Cat 272D3 has a higher rated operating capacity (3,650 vs 3,400 lbs); the Bobcat S86 has more engine power (105 vs 98 hp).

✓The S86 is one of the only machines offering standard-flow, high-flow (36.6 GPM), and super-flow (42 GPM) hydraulics, and owners running planers and mulchers say it powers attachments nothing else in its class can.
✓At 105 hp and 3,400 lb capacity it's the top of Bobcat's wheeled lineup, and heavy-duty contractors praise its raw production capability.
✓The vertical lift with 132-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, a real advantage for aggregate work.
✓The cab-forward visibility and refined, quiet cab carry over from the R-Series, and operators rate it top-tier for comfort and sightlines.
✓Bobcat's unmatched dealer network keeps parts, loaners, and service readily available, minimizing downtime on a machine this productive.
✓Resale value is exceptional — the S86 commands strong used money, softening the high purchase price over time.
✓The 5-link torsion suspension and strong breakout force make it capable across dirt work, loading, and heavy attachment tasks.
✓The super-flow option at 4,061 psi delivers class-leading hydraulic horsepower, which owners running the hungriest attachments specifically buy it for.

✗The S86 is expensive — its premium price and the cost of the super-flow package push it well into large-CTL territory.
✗Bobcat dealer parts and labor rates are among the highest in the industry, and owners feel locked into a costly ecosystem.
✗As a wheeled machine it lacks the flotation of a CTL, so it's less suited to soft or muddy ground where the T86 shines.
✗The proprietary Bob-Tach and controls can complicate running certain third-party attachments, nudging buyers toward Bobcat tools.
✗The DPF/emissions system on the 3.4L engine draws complaints during heavy idling and light-duty cycles.
✗At nearly 10,000 lb it needs a heavy truck and trailer, and the machine's size reduces versatility on tight sites.
✗Tires wear quickly under heavy loads on abrasive surfaces, and a full set of premium tires is a steep recurring cost.
✗Fully optioned with super-flow and premium cab features, the S86's price climbs fast, testing buyers' budgets.

✓At 98 hp and 3,650 lb capacity the 272D3 is Cat's biggest wheeled skid steer, and heavy operators praise its raw power for loading and pushing.
✓The high-flow XPS hydraulic system delivers strong flow and pressure for demanding attachments like planers and cold planers.
✓Cat's sealed, pressurized cab is class-leading for quiet, dust-free comfort, which operators single out for long production days.
✓Vertical lift with a 133-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, ideal for aggregate work.
✓The C3.8 engine has a strong reliability reputation and pulls hard, and owners report dependable high-hour service.
✓Cat's global dealer network delivers fast parts, service, and financing, which fleet owners rely on for uptime on a high-value machine.
✓Resale value is strong thanks to the Cat brand and the machine's popularity in demanding applications.
✓Ride control and the advanced display make a big, powerful machine manageable and productive for operators of varied skill.

✗Cat parts and dealer labor are among the most expensive in the industry, and owners feel maintenance costs on a big machine add up fast.
✗The 1-year base warranty is short versus Bobcat and Kubota's 2-year coverage, which value buyers weigh against the price.
✗As a wheeled machine it lacks the flotation of a CTL, making it less suited to soft or muddy ground than the 299D3.
✗New pricing carries a steep Cat premium, and some contractors feel the capacity-to-price ratio favors New Holland or Case.
✗The DPF emissions system draws complaints during heavy idling and light-duty work that pause production for regen.
✗At over 9,000 lb it needs a heavy truck and trailer, and its size reduces versatility on tight residential sites.
✗The feature-rich cab and high-flow package push the price up quickly, so a well-equipped 272D3 gets expensive.
✗Tires wear quickly under heavy loads on abrasive surfaces, and a full premium set is a steep recurring cost.