Tractor - Buying By Size
Tractors take on the majority of the heavy lifting on modern farms, but they come in a staggering variety of shapes, purposes, and sizes. Size is one of the most important factors, so we here at Mike Cooper Tractors have put together a brief guide to buying a tractor by its size. If you have any questions, or you’re just ready to see the tractors we have for sale, contact our store in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, today!
How Tractor Size Is Defined
The primary stat that divides tractors into their various size categories is the horsepower they can put out. Though the categories may have slightly different definitions based on different manufacturers, we have a generalized guide below to simplify life. Just remember that exact specifications depend on the make and model.
Below 25 HP: Sub-Compact
These are the smallest tractors out there. Sub-compact models are great for light farm work on small properties, or on complex territory. The small size makes them highly maneuverable, letting them manage small spaces and navigating around obstacles with ease. They’re also the cheapest, and the easiest to store. The small size and horsepower does limit their uses and available attachments, however.
Typical sub-compact tractor specs are:
- Weight: 500-1,200 pounds
- Rear wheel size: less than 30”
- Width: less than 48”
25-60 HP: Compact Tractors
A compact tractor is still fairly small, but don’t let that fool you. These machines can handle most farming jobs, with enough power for just about any project without sacrificing the lighter build and maneuverability. They also come with more attachment options than their smaller, sub-compact cousins. The largest compact tractors sometimes come with a turbocharger on the engine to boost performance further.
Typical compact tractor specs are:
- Weight: 1,500-6,000 pounds, depending on whether or not there’s an enclosed cab
- Rear wheel size: between 30-36”
- Width: 42-54”
60-140 HP: Utility Tractors
These are the big tractors you probably think of, and they’re perfect for sprawling properties and commercial projects. With a larger size and higher HP, they can handle more implements and take on tougher jobs, typically offering multiple hydraulic hookups and PTOs at the front, back, and sides. Those with enclosed cabs tend to have adjustable seating and climate control.
Typical utility tractor specs are:
- Weight: 3,000 pounds or more
- Rear wheel size: 36-60”
- Width: 54-72”
The Right Size
To determine which size tractor works best for your needs, consider:
- Jobs and property. Smaller models can soar through smaller workloads, but big properties and projects need big tractors
- Attachments. The more implements you see yourself needing, the bigger the tractor you’ll need
- Weight lifting capacity. Heavier and bulkier loads will require higher PTO HP
Ready to get started? Contact us at Mike Cooper Tractors for more information, or to see the tractors we have in stock. We proudly serve the people of Tulsa and Muskogee, Oklahoma—let us serve you today!