The Massey Ferguson 168, built from 1972 to 1976, stands today as one of the rarest and most sought-after tractors from Massey Ferguson's golden era. Producing 69 horsepower from its 3.9-liter, four-cylinder Perkins diesel engine, the 168 was positioned as a significant improvement over the already successful 165 model, incorporating advanced engineering that made it a standout in the competitive mid-range tractor market.
Perkins engineered the 168's engine with an increased stroke length from 114mm to 122mm compared to the 165, resulting in higher displacement and improved torque characteristics. The engine featured 16:1 compression ratio and delivered 200 lb-ft of torque at 1,250 rpm, providing the pulling power farmers needed for heavy fieldwork. With 7.9 liters of oil capacity and 13.6 liters of coolant capacity, the engine was built for long service intervals and reliable operation.
The 168's most innovative feature was a six-inch spacer added between the gearbox and rear axle, creating several important advantages. This design moved the center of gravity forward, improving hydraulic lift capacity to an impressive 1,814 kilograms. The modification also created a more spacious operator area with a wider doorway, longer footplates, and extra room between the seat and steering wheel—features that significantly improved operator comfort during long working days.
Transmission options included either an eight-speed manual or the more sophisticated 12-speed Multi-Power system with four reverse gears. Both could deliver 59 horsepower at the 540 rpm PTO, making the 168 versatile for a wide range of implements. The rarity of the 168 today—often described as "very rare" by collectors—stems from its relatively short four-year production run and its position as a specialized model within Massey Ferguson's extensive lineup, making authentic 168 merchandise particularly prized among tractor enthusiasts.
