Although it is often thought that all classic prairie tractors were built in the USA for use on massive American farms, there were a few models both manufactured and sold on this side of the Atlantic. They were not of the size or scale of their American counterparts.

One such tractor was the Massey Ferguson MF1200 launched in 1972. This large machine had four equal-sized wheels and a central pivot point. The tractor was based on the similarly styled Massey Ferguson 1500 and 1800 models introduced in America the previous year, and was built in Manchester, England.

The Massey Ferguson 1200 was powered by a 105hp six-cylinder Cummins diesel engine, mated to a 12-speed ‘Multi-Power’ transmission. The machine weighted approximately five tonnes and was relatively manoeuvrable, given its size.

ADVERTISEMENT

The MF1200 was superseded by the Massey Ferguson 1250 in 1978. The new model had a more powerful 112hp six-cylinder Perkins diesel engine, and was fitted with a modified ‘Multi-Power’ transmission. The 1250 also had a strengthened rear linkage assembly with a larger assister ram.

The 1250 can be distinguished from its predecessor by its front grille design which sported a Massey Ferguson logo as opposed to the letters ‘MF.’

Production of the Massey Ferguson 1250 continued in Britain until 1982. By then, the tractor no longer had a great power or traction advantage over the other four-wheel drive tractors on the market.

Other examples of prairie tractors that proved relatively popular in Britain were the Ford FW-30 and FW-60 machines, unveiled at the Royal Smithfield Show in 1978 and 1980.

The FW-30 and FW-60 were originally powered by Cummins V8 diesel engines that produced 295hp and 335hp respectively, and were based on the American Steiger tractors. The Ford machines were fitted with a transmission that provided 20 forward and four reverse speeds.

Both the FW-30 and FW-60 tractors were relatively easy to drive, with a cab that provided excellent visibility. Although American prairie tractors were predominantly used for towing implements, Ford’s FW tractor range was fitted with a heavy-duty rear linkage system.

Production of the FW-30 ceased in 1982. Two years later, an upgraded version of the FW-60 was unveiled. The new model was later offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Ford FW-30 and FW-60 are imposing looking tractors that proved to be reliable workhorses on many farms. The last example rolled off the production line in 1987.

Today, the Massey Ferguson MF1200/1250 and Ford FW-30/60 tractors are sought after machines.

There are a number of the ford FW tractors in the hands of Irish classic tractor collectors. However, the size and transport costs prohibit many enthusiasts from owning and showing restored examples.