Porsche 218 Tractor 1959

• Chassis number 3606
• Only 5,919 operating hours
• Very original condition
• From the second owner
• Relatively rare, with approximately 12,000 units produced

GENERAL
Porsche had been producing tractors in collaboration with other companies since 1937, but took over full production in 1956. From that point on, they were known as Porsche-Diesel. These tractors had air-cooled engines, which made maintenance easier, and were available with one to four cylinders. This specific ‘Standard’ model is fitted with a 1,644 cc two-cylinder engine. A beautiful and characterful 1959 Porsche-Diesel Motorenbau GmbH 218 Standard, an iconic air-cooled tractor from the era when Porsche still built robust agricultural machinery alongside sports cars. This tractor is renowned for its reliability, simple engineering and timeless appearance. With its distinctive red paintwork, rounded bonnet and compact build, this is a true classic in the world of agricultural machinery. It is a highly original, used tractor, suitable for actual use. The tractor has not been restored and still features the original bodywork, which makes it a rarity today. The tractor was built in 1959 and is said to have had only two owners. The tractor has clocked up only approximately 5,919 operating hours, which amounts to an average of 88 hours per year.

EXTERIOR
The tractor is finished in Porsche’s distinctive red colour. Thanks to the air-cooled engine, the tractor has a curved bonnet without a radiator. Original chrome badges are present. It also features front lighting and indicators. The wheels are yellow with red hubs. The exterior is in exceptionally original condition.

INTERIOR
The tractor is largely original both inside and out. The driver’s compartment is simple and functional, with an original aluminium instrument panel. The large steering wheel and the steel seat are also original. Control levers operate the functions, and there is a lockable toolbox beneath the dashboard.

TECHNICAL
This model has a 28 hp air-cooled two-cylinder engine, capable of a top speed of around 24 km/h. Porsche tractors are renowned for their reliability and ease of maintenance, partly due to the absence of a vulnerable cooling system. The engine compartment looks neat and is easily accessible. Mechanically, the tractor is in good condition and drives and changes gear well.

SUMMARY
Although Porsche is best known for its sports cars, its tractors are now rare and sought-after as production ceased as early as 1963. They combine reliability with ease of use, making them attractive to both collectors and users. This particular model is in exceptionally original condition. With relatively few hours of use, this tractor still has plenty of potential for both work and pleasure. For the enthusiast, it provides a fine basis for a restoration.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE PORSCHE 218 TRACTOR
Before the Second World War, Ferdinand Porsche’s design office developed several prototype tractors. These were initially fitted with petrol engines, but later switched to diesel. A range of air-cooled engines was developed, with one to four cylinders and power outputs ranging from 14 to 55 hp. A striking feature of Porsche tractors was the hydraulic clutch between the engine and the gearbox. This system enabled smooth gear changes without a clutch and reduced wear on the transmission.
After the war, Porsche was not permitted to produce tractors itself, as only companies with prior production experience were granted permission to do so. Porsche therefore licensed its designs to other manufacturers. In 1954, Mannesmann AG expanded its activities by acquiring the rights to Porsche engines and the tractor design from Allgaier GmbH. This led to the establishment of Porsche-Diesel Motorenbau GmbH.
In 1956, a new factory was built in Friedrichshafen-Manzell, on the site of a former Zeppelin factory. Porsche tractors were produced here until production ceased in 1963. During that period, more than 125,000 units were built, a large proportion of which were exported. Just like Porsche’s sports cars, their tractors were also renowned for their high-quality engineering and excellent build quality.

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