The 8S comes across as chic, while its old counterpart looks boxy. Nevertheless the classic Massey holds some trumps up its sleeve.
Its strength lies in its details — that was the headline of our 1996 tractor test on the 8150. Compared with the stylish and futuristic looking 8S.265 model, the older Massey Ferguson looks cubistic and rustic. Yet these are precisely the strengths of the 8100 series. The beefy Valmet engine and its simple operation are the hallmarks of this now classic range. But there are also massive weaknesses that spoil the initial charm of this older Massey.
Finnish powerhouse
The Valmet engine (now AgcoPower) has six cylinders and a 7.4-litre displacement. That not only gives the Massey a throaty sound but also a decent level of torque, which is well regarded by MF owners. This particular 8150 is the arable tractor of the Brüninghoff family.
“A five-furrow plough is no challenge for the 8150,” enthuses owner Frank Brüninghoff. It’s better to avoid high revs at current fuel prices, because the straight-six-cylinder unit is quite thirsty when you pile on the revs. And what about the new one? The turbo charged power plant in the 8S.265 generates 208kW/285hp from its 7.4-litre block. This complies with Stage V emissions, thanks to an all-in-one package of SCR, DOC etc and, of course, the use of AdBlue.
Hydraulic tappets eliminate the requirement for adjusting the valves … and on the test bench the new engine consumed 242g/kWh, marginally less than the Valmet motor did 25 years ago (248g/kWh).
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