Having worked on all of this stuff for years i have come to the conclusion that they are basically the same. All of them will last for years if you do a couple things.
1 maintain the thing by that i mean grease it every 8 to 10 hours on the joints and remove the old grease that has the dirt stuck to it.
2 Change the oil and filters often, by filters i mean all of them air both inner and outer (do not blow them out) fuel, hydraulic etc.
3 operate the machine within its designed parameters, do not try to use it as a 100 HP machine when you have only 75. if you need a bigger machine get a bigger machine.
Having said that there a couple things you need to know ahead. If you plan on using some of the hydraulic attachments some of these require a highflow system and not all machines have this. so think ahead about how you really plan to use it.
some machines like Case throw more HP at the hydraulic system to make up for a lack of better pump. Over time this can create leaks or stressed areas of the loader frame.
Some machines use foot controls for the loader/bucket system which is a PITA.
get a machine with joystick controls for travel and operation, Cat and Bobcat both offer this as do others.
another thing to consider is how far is your nearest dealer. sure you get a deal on a Kubota but its no deal if you have to driver far and they do not stock the parts. You cannot beat Caterpillar's parts availability.
so having said all of this #1 is Cat but its pricey , you get what you pay for though especially in support.
