Production years
1964-1975, US-built version
Massey Ferguson tractor ยท 1964-1975
Massey Ferguson 165 Tractor
The US-built Massey Ferguson 165 is a broadly capable 60 hp row-crop and utility tractor, commonly cited at 51 claimed PTO hp in diesel form. It remains a practical choice for hay, mowing, livestock work, and moderate tillage.
Engine
Perkins 203.5 cu in (3.3 L) or 212 cu in (3.5 L) four-cylinder diesel; gasoline engines were also offered
Power
51 hp claimed diesel PTO; 47 hp claimed gasoline PTO
Weight
Approximately 5,005-5,830 lb, depending on engine and configuration
Massey Ferguson 165 specifications
| Production years | 1964-1975, US-built version |
|---|---|
| Engine | Perkins 203.5 cu in (3.3 L) or 212 cu in (3.5 L) four-cylinder diesel; gasoline engines were also offered |
| Power | 51 hp claimed diesel PTO; 47 hp claimed gasoline PTO |
| Transmission | 6-speed, 8-speed, or 12F/4R Multi-Power partial powershift |
| Weight | Approximately 5,005-5,830 lb, depending on engine and configuration |
| Fuel type | Diesel or gasoline |
| Hydraulics | Open-center, 4.5 gpm pump flow |
| Hitch and PTO | Category I, II, or I/II hitch; 540 rpm live PTO, independent PTO optional |
What the 165 is used for
The MF 165 is a good match for small and midsize farm tasks such as hay handling, mowing, light tillage, feeding, and general utility work. Its power-to-size balance and available Multi-Power transmission made it notably flexible for its era.
Configuration matters: choose front axle, steering, PTO, hydraulic remotes, and tire setup for the work you expect to do. It remains a vintage open-station tractor, so its capabilities should be approached with modern safe-operating practices.
Why the Massey Ferguson 165 stands out
The 165 became popular because it offered useful horsepower in a compact, mechanically straightforward package, with Perkins diesel options and Ferguson three-point-hitch heritage. Strong parts availability and a large owner community have helped it remain one of the most recognizable Massey Ferguson classics.
Buying a used Massey Ferguson 165
Determine the engine, transmission, and PTO configuration before assigning value, especially on Multi-Power tractors. Test clutch operation, all gears and ranges, PTO engagement, hydraulic lift and remote performance, brakes, steering, differential and final-drive leaks, and Perkins starting behavior; examine the dashboard serial plate. Values vary, so compare local listings and confirm exact model-year specifications with TractorData.com.
Massey Ferguson 165 frequently asked questions
How much PTO power does an MF 165 diesel have?
The US-built diesel MF 165 is commonly listed at 51 claimed PTO hp.
What is Multi-Power on an MF 165?
Multi-Power is the optional 12-forward, 4-reverse partial powershift transmission arrangement.
Were MF 165 tractors offered with gasoline engines?
Yes. The US-built MF 165 was offered with gasoline as well as diesel engine options.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Values and prices of used tractors vary by condition and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.