Comparison same tractors but differant HP why

[8404]

Im looking at buying a new 5 series utility tractor. i was reading the spec sheet, I noticed that this tractor comes in 45,55,65,75hp My question is what makes these tractor have differant HP ratings and Higher prices? the 5045e weighs the same as the 5075e it also shars the same size 179cc 3cylinder engine, same 3point lift capacity, the same transmissions, the same wheel base. the only differance i see is final gear ratio. It seems that if you going to pay more for the larger HP tractor than it should also have some other differances other than listed HP on the sticker, it seem like a person who new how could just change some small part of the 45hp engine and it would become the 75 horse and save 7 grand. this kinda looks like a marketing ripoff to me.
I guess i just think it would be simpler to just make the 75hp version and set the price the same as the 45hp tractor since there is no apparent differance in the tractor or the engines tha i can see. I will probly settle on getting the 5055E anyway.

 

[AKfish]

John Deere is not the only tractor manufacturer to configure their machines in the way you described.

There are other posts on the other manufacturer's forums that describe the same concerns. Same engine -- different Hp -- more money.

Of course, this leads everyone down the next rabbit trail of how can I swap out the fuel pump and the turbo and "Oh yah"; how does the new computer control system fit into this equation and could I buy a "chip"?!??!

Makes for an interesting chain of discussions but so far --- no enterprising upstarts or "tweekers" that will offer up their results.

AKfish

 

[bp fick]

Yes, it is marketing differentiation. If a builder has 8 sizes of tractors, and perhaps had 2 different horse powered models from which to choose, that might be somewhat understandable, if the horsepower range was significant. No, the cost difference SHOULDN'T be great between them, but there are profit margins for these guys to consider. It is up to the consumer to sort through this stuff, separating wheat from chaff.

Some extremes show up to 4 horsepower selections for what is essentially one model line. If the OEM has those 8 model lines, this gives them the bragging rights of saying they have 32 tractors to offer.

It is likely all unnecessary, but the competition is rather fierce and this is just one way the tractor builders are marketing their wares. Again, the consumer needs to see through all this and make wise choices.

 

[deere5105]

I have noticed this too. I have a 5105 and my neighbor has the 5205. Identical tractors except I believe he has 6hp more at engine and 4hp more at PTO. If buying new today I too would be looking at the 5055E. I recommend adding the 16.9-28 rear tire as an option if buying new.