At the beginning of 1996, the New Holland Fiatagri M-series replaced the Fiatagri Winner, consisting of four models: M 100, 115, 135, and 160. The two most powerful models were also available in blue under the name New Holland Ford 8360 and 8560. Slightly later, smaller blue models were introduced as well: 8160 and 8260. The tractors were manufactured at Ford’s factory in England, but significant components came from Italy.

The lineup was essentially a 135-160 horsepower tractor in terms of frame and technology, which was also sold without a turbocharger in the 100 and 115 horsepower classes. In these classes, the tractor was large and heavy compared to its competitors. The standard equipment in Finland was unprecedentedly extensive, but tractors were also produced in much more basic versions.

The engine was Ford’s 7.5-liter six-cylinder. Torque increases in the turbo models were as much as 43% and 37%. The standard power range began at 1750 rpm. A viscous fan was standard. The injection pump was a Bosch distributor pump. The turbocharged models had many differences compared to the turbodiesel models, including the cylinder block, pistons and rings, valves, water-cooled oil cooler, larger radiator, air intake, and, in the M135/8360 models, stronger axles.

There were a total of 12 different transmission options. Only two versions from the lineup’s top end were imported to Finland. In Finland, the standard always included crawler gears, 40 km/h top speed, hydraulic reverser, and a 2-speed hydraulic powershift. This model was known as Dual Command.

The Range Command model featured a 6-speed powershift implemented with five multi-disc clutches. Additionally, the speed range and direction shifted electrically without using a clutch. The reverse speed could be programmed to be 1-3 steps faster or slower than the forward gear. Gear automation handled upshifting up to the desired speed, and over most of the range, the gear could be downshifted to the appropriate one by lightly pressing the clutch. Each gear had to be passed through when shifting. The starting gear was the first gear of the middle range.

The locking of the differentials was electrically engaged at both ends. Additionally, automatic locking was standard in Finland. The power take-off (PTO) offered, as with the Winner, all the known options by default, i.e. 540/750/1000 rpm and ground PTO. The hydraulic system was always closed in Finland, with a capacity of 93.5 liters per minute. Likewise, the power lift and the auxiliary cylinders of the lift system (lifting capacity 6730 kg) were standard in Finland. The problem with the lift system was that lifting power at the bottom position was much lower than the above figure.

The cab frame was the same as in Ford’s 40-series. The controls were mostly placed on the right side. The noise level was 73 dB.

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