I think you are correct in that the 8N has more power. Gas or diesel, that is all fine but the real deal is displacement and the 8N has a 4 cylinder 120 cubic inch engine. That is twice the size of my 2410. Both are rated at similar horsepower but my bet is on the ol'8N. Problem with such tractors as the 8N is they were made for ag use in a different age and time. There is no ROP, no seatbelt, no HYDRO (yuk), virtually no fender to keep you out of the wheel, no power steering (yuk-yuk), no purpose made easy off and on loader that is simple to use, lacks manuverability, no 4WD (triple YUK). The 8N is a great unit but it is also an antique. I wish there was a modern equivilent that had the look, feel, cubic inches, gasoline and obvious durability etc but with modern features--and--a somewhat smaller overall footprint would be nice too. I wish for a retro look. These modern tractors--all of them--look like streamlined missiles. I guess when you are mowing into the wind that low streamlined cowl really helps--sure. Simple can be nice and that is the virtue of older tractors like the 8N. J