Premium brand vs entry level: John Deere vs Mahindra

Both brands are considered to be the largest in the world. John Deere is the most popular on brand value and Mahindra on sales volume. This article will look at the John Deere 3038E and the Mahindra 6060.

Power

Let’s face it, when it comes to tractors customers want a vehicle that is ready to work. Power is important however it all comes down to costs so which of these offer the best power figure for the cost?

The John Deere 3038E forms part of the 3 Series family which makes it one of the smallest tractors on offer from the iconic brand. It is powered by a 1.642-L, liquid-cooled 3TNV88F-EPJT1 Yanmar diesel engine provides up to 46hp. What’s more is that the engine uses the latest technologies to optimize fuel economy, improve control and accuracy, and reduce environmental impact.

The Mahindra 6060 on the other hand makes use of a high performance 4 cylinder, direct injection, water cooled, turbo charged engine, easy shift synchromesh transmission with Power shuttle and big lift capacity. This motor offers 57hp which is 11hp more than the John Deere.

Transmission

When it comes to the transmission customers tend to look for versatility and a transmission that can best utilise the engines power.

The 3E John Deere is available with a two-range hydrostatic transmission (HST) incorporated in a die-cast aluminum transmission case. This specific transmission makes use of a no clutching system for fast and easy direction changes. The 3E Series can also be fitted  with an optional cruise control switch. This gives operators the ability to keep a constant speed when in transportation, field mowing, or other applications.

The Mahindra on the other hand makes use of a more standard transmission system which offers 15 forward and 3 reverse gears. It also makes use of the tried and tested mechanical synchromesh construction which has been known to be reliable under heavy load conditions. 

Lift capacity

A good tractor must be able to lift the implements required for farming such a ploughs, rakes and cutters to name a few. A good hydraulic system with strong lift capacity is needed.

The John Deere has a lift capacity of around 1500kgs but makes use of a clever hitch system. The iMatch Quick-Hitch provides easy hookup and a guaranteed fit for all Category 1 implements.

The Mahindra offers a system that offers a lift capacity of 2200kgs thanks to a precision hydraulic response system. The 6060 also offers an impressive 49hp PTO. This is adequate for most small scale implements. 

Comfort

Even though these are entry-level offerings they need to offer decent comfort for operators who tend to spend extended periods of time with them. It is also important that they offer easy to use controls and many of these customers are self taught operators and don’t have the funds available for simulation development training.

The John Deere makes use of a well configured operator cab which includes easy to use controls as well as a safe and secure seat. The cab is however an open station.

The Mahindra makes use of an open cab but it can be fitted with a rear bar and roof for added protection in the field. The controls are basic but easy to use and durable. This ensures less time is needed in training and more time spent on production.

Both tractors offer a host of safety features and both are easy to maintain. The John Deere however has been designed with easy servicing in mind and thus makes use cleverly placed service items. For example, the oil filter is easy to reach and can be changed in very little time. This ensures a quick turnaround time when it comes to maintenance. 

Verdict

Both tractors offer a host of unique features however the Mahindra seems to over the best value for money. While it lacks a bit of the technology that is on offer compared to the John Deere it make us for in performance and ease of use.