In India, farming isn’t just an occupation. It’s a way of life. And behind every hardworking farmer, there’s a dependable tractor carrying the weight literally and figurative of the daily grind. Two tractors that are often seen competing in this space are the Massey Ferguson 245 DI and the Swaraj 855 FE.
At first glance, both look capable and trustworthy. But when it comes to investing nearly 7 lakh rupees on a tractor, Indian farmers don't make decisions lightly. And why should they? Every rupee counts. Every feature matters. So in this detailed comparison, we break down every part of these two popular 2WD tractors engine performance, transmission, fuel efficiency, hydraulics, comfort, pricing, and more.
By the end of this article, you'll know exactly which machine suits your farm, your crops, and your budget.
What Makes a Great 2WD Tractor for Indian Fields?
Before we go deep into the technical data, let’s take a step back and understand what a tractor really needs to offer to succeed in the Indian market.
A farmer doesn't care only about the horsepower on paper. Real-life performance, fuel usage over long working hours, service availability in rural areas, spare parts cost, resale value, and overall reliability are key decision points. Whether you’re ploughing a field in Punjab or transporting sugarcane in Maharashtra, your tractor needs to do more than look good in a brochure.
Both Massey Ferguson 245 DI and Swaraj 855 FE have earned their place among farmer-preferred machines but for different reasons. Let’s unpack them.
Engine Power – Who Pulls Harder?
On paper, Massey Ferguson 245 DI offers 50 HP slightly more than Swaraj’s 48 HP. However, Swaraj 855 FE compensates with a higher engine displacement of 3478 cc, which means stronger low-end torque. This is helpful when pulling heavy loads or during soil cultivation in rough terrain.
In real usage, both tractors hold their own. Massey feels more responsive in initial acceleration, whereas Swaraj shows its strength under load and longer hours.
Verdict: If you want quicker responsiveness and lighter implements, Massey might be a better fit. But if your work involves heavy-duty ploughing or loading, Swaraj’s raw torque is a real asset.
Transmission – Smooth Gears or Rugged Performance?
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
In terms of gearbox sophistication, Massey 245 DI wins with its Partial Constant Mesh system. It ensures smoother gear transitions useful when switching gears while handling tools like rotavators or threshers. The dual-clutch is a great touch, allowing better control between the tractor and the implement.
The Swaraj 855 FE, however, gives flexibility with three clutch options Single, Dual, and IPTO (Independent PTO). This allows farmers to pick the clutch variant based on their farming style and budget.
Verdict
Massey offers more polish in shifting. Swaraj delivers variety and practicality.
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Capacity
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
Fuel Tank Capacity 47 Litres 62 Litres
Fuel costs are a daily headache for farmers. A 15-liter difference in tank size means Swaraj 855 FE can run longer between refuels. Especially during peak seasons like sowing and harvesting less downtime equals better productivity.
Despite having a slightly bigger engine, Swaraj's fuel consumption remains controlled, thanks to its long-stroke engine design that emphasizes torque at lower RPMs.
Verdict
For longer shifts and fewer breaks, Swaraj takes the lead.
Hydraulics – How Much Can You Lift?
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
The Swaraj 855 FE has the edge in raw lifting power with a 2000 kg capacity. This makes it ideal for lifting heavy equipment like cultivators, potato planters, or post-hole diggers. Massey Ferguson, while capable, is slightly behind in this segment.
Verdict
If your farm work involves heavy implements or loaders, go with Swaraj.
Dimensions and Field Fit
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
The Swaraj 855 FE is heavier and offers higher ground clearance. This makes it more stable and resilient in uneven terrains or waterlogged fields. But that also means it's slightly less maneuverable in tight spots.
Massey 245 DI, being lighter and shorter, is perfect for orchards, greenhouses, and fields with tight turning zones.
Verdict
Smaller fields? Choose Massey. Wider, rugged land? Choose Swaraj.
Brakes, Steering, and Tyres – Comfort & Control
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
Brakes Sealed Dry Disc Dry Disc / Oil-Immersed (Optional)
Steering Mechanical / Power (Optional) Mechanical / Power (Optional)
Front Tyres 6.00 x 16 6.00 x 16 / 7.50 x 16
Rear Tyres 13.6 x 28 14.9 x 28 / 16.9 x 28
Both tractors offer similar steering configurations and braking choices, though Swaraj’s option for oil-immersed brakes gives it a durability advantage in slushy or rainy conditions.
In tyre size, Swaraj offers bigger rear tyre options, which means better grip during ploughing or haulage jobs.
Verdict
Swaraj edges ahead on braking and traction.
Extra Features – Which One Surprises You?
Feature Massey Ferguson 245 DI Swaraj 855 FE
Here’s where Swaraj 855 FE starts feeling like the more modern, feature-rich tractor. Whether it’s a charging point for your mobile, adjustable front/rear weights for better balance, or steering lock for security, Swaraj brings a well-rounded package to the table.
Massey, meanwhile, stays old-school but reliable.
Verdict
Price Comparison – What’s Your Budget Saying?
Model Price (Ex-Showroom)
Massey Ferguson 245 DI ₹6.95 – ₹7.6 Lakh
Swaraj 855 FE ₹7.10 – ₹7.40 Lakh
Prices may vary slightly depending on the region, dealer discounts, and financing schemes. Overall, Massey is slightly cheaper, but the Swaraj 855 FE offers more features for the price.
If you’re tight on budget, the Massey Ferguson 245 DI gives you value without cutting corners. But if you're okay spending a bit more for more capability, Swaraj 855 FE is a clear choice.
Final Verdict
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose Massey Ferguson 245 DI If:
You want a lighter, more compact tractor.
Your work involves narrow farms, orchards, or short bursts of ield use.
You prefer a straightforward, old-school, easy-to-maintain machine.
You’re working with a slightly tighter budget.
Choose Swaraj 855 FE If
Your work demands longer shifts and fewer fuel refills.
You want to use heavier implements.
You value additional features like a mobile charging port or oil-immersed brakes.
You’re working on tough terrain and want better ground clearance and grip.
Farmers’ Feedback
Farmers from regions like Haryana, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh consistently rank Swaraj 855 FE high for its stability and durability. However, in southern states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Massey Ferguson 245 DI has earned a loyal base for being more agile and easy to service.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Massey Ferguson 245 DI and the Swaraj 855 FE isn’t about specs alone. It's about what works for your land, your crops, your daily routines, and your wallet.
In a market full of options, these two remain strong contenders for good reason. They offer reliability, resale value, and low maintenance three things every Indian farmer looks for.
Whatever you pick, make sure you test drive both before finalizing.
For more expert reviews, tractor comparisons, and farming updates, visit Rooh-e-Seemanchal.in. Stay informed. Stay empowered.
Disclaimer
Prices, specifications, and features may vary by location and time. Please check with your local dealer for current offers and updates.
