The Ferguson TE – or Little Grey Fergie – is the Mini or 2CV of the tractor world: one of the absolute icons.
Designed by Harry Ferguson and manufactured by the Standard Motor Company, the TE20 (to give it its official name, which stood for Tractor/England/20hp) was introduced in 1946 and was manufactured for a decade, proving critical in regenerating British farming in the immediate post-war period.
Originally fitted with a Standard T20 petrol engine, diesel specialists Perkins of Peterborough developed a three-cylinder engine specifically for agricultural purposes. The Perkins P3 was a 2.5-litre three-cylinder unit that developed substantial torque, making it ideal for not just powering tractors, but also power-take-off farming equipment.
The engine was sold in a Ferguson conversion kit, so that farmers could transplant their engines quickly and easily to give more versatility and lower fuel consumption, so it’s not surprising that it was a very popular option – nor that Perkins was able to convince Ferguson to install the engine itself in its later generation tractors, a relationship that lasted for two decades.
This example is a TE20 with the Perkins P3 conversion, bought by the vendor’s late husband a few years ago and restored by him as a hobby project. Sadly, he passed away soon after completing it and his wife has kept it for the past three years, but an imminent house move means she now needs to find it a new home.
It’s a lovely old thing, well-restored and in charming condition.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Restored by vendor and completed in 2020
Purchased as an unregistered vehicle
Will be Tax and MOT exempt
Correspondence between vendor and Friends of Ferguson Heritage confirming the tractor’s build data and that it was manufactured by the Standard Motor Company in December 1947
The letter can be used to apply for a V5C with DVLA
Perkins engine conversion installation guide included
Copy of for sale ad from previous vendor
THE CONDITION
Excellent overall condition
Restored by previous owner
Excellent Ferguson Grey paint finish all over, with one small area of damage to the corner of the bonnet
Superb attention to detail – all correct badges and controls
Wheels in great condition with good tyres
Period Perkins Diesel and AA badges
THE MECHANICS
2.5-litre Perkins P3 diesel triple
Starts and runs very well
Power take-off
Suspension and steering components all renewed or refurbished
Sold as in good working order with no known faults but potential bidders should bear in mind that the tractor hasn’t been used much other than occasional runs around the garden in recent times, so it would be advisable to check it over thoroughly before use
SUMMARY
Here is an opportunity to get your hands on a hugely charming and well-restored example of one of the UK’s most iconic and celebrated vehicles. The Ferguson TE20 is a wonderful and instantly recognisable piece of design which found fame all over the world, with additional manufacturing in the USA and Australia. It’s an all-time classic.
If you want something extremely cool and ready to register and use on classic tractor runs and the like, then this one is a superb example.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1947 Ferguson TE20 P3 Diesel
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