Bobcat S185 vs Cat 236
The Cat 236 is the heavier machine, at 2.97 t against 2.82 t, and the Cat 236 has more power (48.4 kW against 43.3 kW).
The Bobcat S185 is ahead on: more torque, lifts or carries more, bigger fuel tank, turns tighter, lower to transport. The Cat 236 is ahead on: more power, dumps higher, reaches higher, more digging or pushing force, more hydraulic flow, faster.
Below, every figure both makers publish sits side by side, with the Bobcat S185 and the Cat 236 drawn to the same scale from their dimension drawings.
At a glance
Bold is the machine ahead on each figure, with its lead.
| Figure | Bobcat S185 | Cat 236 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2,821 kg | 2,972 kg |
| Gross powerHigher is better | 45.5 kW | 49.2 kW+8% |
| Max torqueHigher is better | 201 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Dump height with standard bucketHigher is better | 2.31 m | 2.359 m+2% |
| Operating heightHigher is better | 3.863 m | 3.977 m+3% |
| Rated operating capacityHigher is better | 839 kg+2% | 825 kg |
| Tilt breakout forceHigher is better | 1,554 kgf | 2,269 kgf+46% |
| Pump flowHigher is better | 64 L/min | 76 L/min+19% |
| Fuel tankHigher is better | 90.8 L+4% | 87 L |
| Top speedHigher is better | 11.8 km/h | 12.1 km/h+3% |
| Turning radius with standard bucketLower is better | 2.001 m+5% | 2.107 m |
| Height with operator cabLower is better | 1.938 m+7% | 2.082 m |
| Length with standard bucket | 3.309 m | 3.487 m |
All specifications
Every figure the makers publish. Search for one, or show only those that differ.
Dimensions
Weight
Performance
Engine
Hydraulics
Service capacities
Service intervals
Tyres
Cab
Sources: Bobcat S185 Skid-Steer Loader Specifications, 6 October 2007 (North America), archive copy - dimension drawing and letters · Cat 236D3 Skid Steer Loader spec sheet AEHQ8218-03 (05-2025), S Am / AME / Eurasia / APD-LRC
Drawn to scale
Side views measured off each maker's dimension drawing, front edges and ground lined up.
Bobcat S185 vs Cat 236: questions
Which is bigger, the Bobcat S185 or Cat 236?
By operating weight the Cat 236 is the biggest at 2.97 t, then the Bobcat S185 at 2.82 t.
Which has more power, the Bobcat S185 or Cat 236?
The Cat 236: Bobcat S185 45.5 kW (61 hp), Cat 236 49.2 kW (65.9 hp) (gross power), a 8% difference.
Which lifts or carries more, the Bobcat S185 or Cat 236?
The Bobcat S185: Bobcat S185 839 kg, Cat 236 825 kg (rated operating capacity), a 2% difference.
Which has the bigger fuel tank, the Bobcat S185 or Cat 236?
The Bobcat S185: Bobcat S185 90.8 L, Cat 236 87 L (fuel tank), a 4% difference.
Which turns tighter, the Bobcat S185 or Cat 236?
The Bobcat S185: Bobcat S185 2.001 m, Cat 236 2.107 m (turning radius with standard bucket), a 5% difference.
Where do these figures come from?
Each model's own published spec sheet or brochure, linked under the table. Builds differ by market and year, so confirm the figures for a particular machine with its dealer.
Can I rent or buy these machines in the UAE?
Each model's page lists the ones for hire and for sale on EquipmentsFinder now, with typical prices in AED.
