Bobcat 463 vs Bobcat S70 – Which One Is Better?

bobcat 463 vs s70
bobcat 463 vs s70

If you’re in the market for new skid steers, then sticking with the Bobcat portfolio can help you find just the perfect fit for your work requirements.

On top of that, it brings the perfect balance between pricing and efficiency. So, you will be able to find a lot of options that match your budget requirements.

Make sure to reach out to the professionals working at the dealership if you’re not sure about the skid steer specifications.

A lot of users have been requesting information on Bobcat 463 and S70. Both of these units are pretty solid and bring incredible utility to your setup. So, let’s cover these options to give you a better perspective on the purchase decision.

Bobcat 463 vs Bobcat S70:

Specifics Bobcat 463 Bobcat S70
HP 22.5 23.5
Operating Weight 2708 2892
Auxiliary Std Flow 10 gal/min 9.8 gal/min
Joystick Controls N/A N/A

When you’re looking at the performance of both of these skid steers, the Bobcat S70 will come out on top with a slight margin.

However, when you talk to the local experts that have been using the skid steers for a while, almost every single one will be towards the 463.

This increased popularity and support behind the 463 can be linked with the fact that this skid steer has been in the market since 2002.

Many of the old school experts have gotten used to the performance, the weight distribution, and the basics around this skid steer.

While there is no concrete evidence behind the claims that the steering and the control offered by 463 is better, you won’t notice much of a difference when testing out both of these skid steers.

It can be hard to figure out the differences in performance when sticking with either one of these options. 

Both units for Bobcat can be described as phenomenal. You will get amazing performance and utility from both of these potions with Bobcat S70 being slightly better.

The features offered by the S70, including the hydrostatic pump centering and belt drive will put it above the 463. 

This increased weight from the S70 can hinder the performance for some users.

The operating weight of the Bobcat S70 is slightly higher which can result in reduced performance. However, the manufacturer did bring more horsepower (23.5) to accommodate this increased weight.

Other than that, there are no significant differences that will impact your purchase decision. As long as you’re confident in your skills, it is not that hard to replicate the performance offered by S70 from a 463.

So, if you’re confused about which skid steer to purchase or simply want to save up on the budget, just go with the option that is cheaper for your budget.

Relying on the cheaper option will help you save on the budget side of things, while still maintaining the same performance.

On the other hand, if you’re not too worried about the budget and just want something decent then we will push you towards the S70.

Everything will boil down to the budget that you’re willing to spend. So, have that in mind when you’re confused between these two skid steers. 

Bobcat 463

It is one of the most reliable skid steers in the market, and you’ll find many experts that have kept this unit in perfect condition for over a decade.

It brings an enhanced level of durability to the users but doesn’t have all the new features that you can expect in a modern skid steer.

So, if you’re looking for better accessibility options, then sticking with Bobcat 463 might not be the perfect option for you.

bobcat 463

In terms of functionality, there are not many differences between the S70 and the Bobcat 463. Both of these units bring the same level of productivity to your project, and you will get similar build quality with either one of these options.

So, there is no need to go out of budget if you’re only looking to perform basic loading tasks with this unit.

The Bobcat 463 is an older unit that is mainly suited for jobs that require a compact machine for heavy lifting. 

Its smaller design makes it the perfect unit for demanding projects where users don’t have much space to work with. So, if your work requirements match this description, then there is no harm in spending your money on a Bobcat 463.

All in all, the Bobcat 463 is a reliable unit that has served many users over the last few years.

This unit is known for its robust performance in compact locations. So, if you’re looking for pure functionality and durability, then going with the Bobcat 463 can save you a lot of money.

On the other hand, it can be quite challenging to source a 463 in good condition. Make sure to seek help from an expert if you’re unsure about the condition of your unit.

budget

As long as you’re able to source a 463 in good condition, it might provide you with more value when considering the money you’ll be spending on it. However, if you’re not that sure about the secondary market, then your only option is to stick with a fresh piece. 

There is no harm in spending a bit extra to have the warranty and the peace of mind that your system will remain in perfect shape. The Bobcat S70 is better than 463 and you should consider spending a bit more to include this option in your budget.

Bobcat S70

This unit is better suited for users that spend a lot of time on the skid steer to get through the landscaping projects. The best thing about this machine is that it offers a better engine mount and belt drive system. 

Both of these features enable users with this unit with better performance with minimal maintenance requirements. The new design of this unit further makes it users get through the maintenance cycle with a simpler design.

Most people consider this unit as the successor for the 463 as it brings similar features to the users.

bobcat s70

Even though there are a few features that make this machine superior to the 463, the basic functionality of both units is quite similar. This includes the loading capacity, speed, and durability. 

So, you’ll need to make the final purchase decision based on the price point.

For most users sticking with 463 is a better option as they won’t have to spend an inflated price for their unit. However, users interested in better accessibility and performance should consider S70 as their primary option.

This unit can be personalized to match unique operating requirements. So, keep this information in mind while making the final purchase decision.

All in all, the Bobcat S70 is the newer unit that came after 463 with a few utility features that make it easier for users to maintain the machine over the long run.

You won’t have to deal with frequent maintenance cycles, and the simpler design of this unit makes it effortless for even beginners to get through the procedure.

However, you’ll have to spend quite a lot of money to include this unit in your system. So, make sure to keep the budget in mind while deciding between these two models.

Hopefully, you will not have to go through much hassle to secure a skid steer in good condition. Everything comes down to the condition of the unit, and you should never engage with an unofficial dealer. 

Otherwise, you will just be setting yourself up for failure and the performance from the system will be subpar to say the least. So, have that in mind and only engage with the official Bobcat dealer when purchasing your new system.

The Takeaway

These are a few things that you gotta consider when finalizing your purchase. Ninety percent of the time, you will be better off when sticking with the S70.

It offers better features and a more powerful engine. Still, you will have to pay a bit more for the Bobcat S70 when compared with the 463. 

On the other side of things, when you compare the basic performance and power from both units, the differences are not that significant.

You will get almost the same performance and consistency from both skid steers. So, there is no need to over complicate the situation for yourself. 

All that you gotta do is to look at the budget. If you can afford the S70, then go for it. The belt drive system and the hydrostatic pump puts it above the 463.

However, if you don’t want to go over the budget and need something more budget friendly, then going with the S70 is a better idea.

Everything boils down to how you’re planning on spending your money and keeping track of these pointers should help you figure out the right option for your budget.

You should also ask the dealer to guide you and he will make your life easier. 

Just inform him about your budget and requirements, and he will guide you accordingly. 

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