Ahead of its time?

In 1984, Ford’s Series 10 tractors had been on sale for three years, following their initial introduction in 1981. They were heavily based on the earlier 600 and 700 Series tractors, from the 1970s, with major improvements – not least a synchromesh transmission called Synchroshift.

At the time, tractors of 80-90hp were the best sellers, although the upward power trend was evident, in that the 100hp range was rapidly rising in popularity. In the Series 10 line-up, two models were offered in this power bracket – the 103hp 7610 and 7710, both using the same turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

If you did not like the idea of a turbocharged four pot, the only alternative was the six-cylinder 8210 which, at 115hp, was perhaps too large for many prospective purchasers – who often opted to stay with the aforementioned fourcylinder models instead.

Before the launch of a fully revamped range at the end of 1985, Ford made several improvements to the Series 10 models during the course of 1984, including new heavierduty driven front axles and cab improvements, as well as narrow and vineyard models, plus a turbocharged version of the three-cylinder 4610. In amongst all this activity, a further brand-new model was also introduced, one that was pretty much