Four petrol prototypes were designed by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche and built in 1934. The tractors underwent field testing, and were fitted with air-cooled diesel engines when they entered production three years later. Up until 1998, air-cooled engines were a trademark of Porsche 911 cars, and the same was true of the company’s tractor range.

Allgaier GmbH signed a licensing agreement to build diesel tractors under the Porsche name as the company wished to concentrate on car development and production. In 1950, the first Allgaier Porsche tractor, known as the AP17, was launched, powered by a 17 h.p. two-cylinder diesel engine.

In 1953, a new Allgaier Porsche range, consisting of one, two, three and four-cylinder models, was introduced, with power outputs of 11 h.p., 22 h.p., 33 h.p. and 44 h.p. respectively. The tractors’ engines had the same cylinder design, with each cylinder effectively producing 11 h.p.

The machines were well engineered and attractively styled. They sold well and by 1954, it was clear that a larger manufacturing facility was required. Mannesmann AG was licensed to build Porsche tractors and production commenced in the old Zeppelin factory in Friedrichshafen, German.

A new range of red and cream Porsche tractors was unveiled in 1956. The new line-up consisted of the Junior, Standard, Super and Master models, fitted with diesel engines producing 14 h.p., 25 h.p., 38 h.p. and 50 h.p. respectively.

As it was believed some farmers could not operate a conventional clutch properly, Porsche tractors were fitted with a hydraulic coupling to transfer power between the engine and gearbox.

In 1959, a new range of models were unveiled, with power outputs ranging from 15 to 55 h.p., and the following year a Bosch hydraulic system was introduced.

Production of Porsche tractors continued until 1963 when Renault purchased the assets of the tractor production outfit. Between 1956 and 1963, approximately 125,000 Porsche tractors were produced.

Today, Porsche tractors are highly sought after both in Europe and the USA due to their attractive styling and the excellent reputation of the Porsche Company. Indeed, many enthusiasts also own a number of the manufacturer’s sports cars.

One of the most interesting models built by Porsche was the ‘coffee train’ tractor, designed to work on coffee plantations. The tractor’s engine, chassis and wheels were completely enclosed by curved panels to protect the delicate coffee plants. This model was also the only production Porsche tractor fitted with a petrol engine as opposed to diesel.

Should you wish to restore any of the Porsche machines mentioned above, spare parts can be purchased online from www.air-cooled-parts.com, a company based in Oranmore, Co Galway.