The Fiat 1000 Super is a powerful row-crop tractor produced from 1976 to 1979, designed to meet the demands of larger-scale farming operations. With its 5.5-liter 6-cylinder diesel engine delivering over 108 horsepower, it offered reliable performance for heavy-duty field tasks such as plowing, cultivating, and transport. Built in Mannheim, Germany, this model is known for its strong construction, open-center hydraulic system, and optional creeper gearbox for low-speed precision work. Its power steering, wet disc brakes, and two- or four-wheel drive options made it adaptable to different conditions, while its simplicity and mechanical durability ensured ease of maintenance and long service life.
Overview
Model
Fiat 1000 Super
Years
1976 – 1979
Manufacturer
Fiat Trattori
Type
Row-Crop Tractor
Factory
Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Country of Manufacture
Italy (assembly in Germany)
Engine
Engine Model
Fiat 8065.05
Type
Diesel, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Displacement
5.5 L (335.6 ci)
Bore/Stroke
4.02 x 4.72 inches (102 x 120 mm)
Compression Ratio
17:1
Rated Power
108.5 hp (81.0 kW)
Rated RPM
2400
Fuel System
Direct injection
Air Cleaner
Dry type
Cooling System
Pressurized water
Oil Capacity
13.2 qts (12.5 L)
Fuel Tank Capacity
30 gal (113.5 L)
Transmission
Type
Gear
Standard Gears
12 forward, 4 reverse
Optional Creeper
16 forward, 8 reverse
Clutch
Dry dual disc
Final Drive
Planetary
Differential Lock
Mechanical
Power
Gross Power
108.5 hp (81.0 kW)
PTO Power (claimed)
94.6 hp (70.5 kW)
Drawbar Power (tested)
84.4 hp (62.9 kW)
PTO
Rear PTO
Independent
PTO Type
540/1000 RPM
Engagement
Mechanical
PTO Shaft
1 3/8 inch, 6-spline
Hydraulics
Type
Open center
Pump Flow
11.1 gpm (42.0 lpm)
Rear Lift
7056 lbs (3200 kg)
Control
Draft and position
Valves
1 to 2
3-Point Hitch
Category
II
Control
Mechanical
Rear Lift Capacity
7056 lbs (3200 kg)
Chassis
Chassis Type
4×2 2WD or 4×4 MFWD
Steering
Power
Brakes
Wet disc
Cab
Open operator station or optional enclosed cab
Dimensions
Wheelbase
100.4 inches (255 cm)
Length
159.4 inches (405 cm)
Width
81.1 inches (206 cm)
Height (ROPS)
108.3 inches (275 cm)
Ground Clearance
18.5 inches (47 cm)
Weight
Shipping Weight (2WD)
8580 lbs (3891 kg)
Shipping Weight (4WD)
9135 lbs (4144 kg)
Max Ballasted Weight
12,300 lbs (5579 kg)
Electrical
Charging System
Alternator
Charging Amps
32 A
Battery
12V
Ground
Negative
Tires
2WD Front Tires
7.50-20
4WD Front Tires
13.6-28
Rear Tires
18.4-34 or 16.9-38
Fiat 1000 Super Overview
The Fiat 1000 Super, produced between 1976 and 1979, represents the culmination of Fiat Trattori’s push to deliver reliable, high-powered row-crop tractors suited for intensive field operations. Built in Mannheim, Germany—a known hub for agricultural machinery assembly—the 1000 Super was developed for large-scale farms seeking consistent power, mechanical simplicity, and long-lasting serviceability. With over 108 horsepower from a naturally aspirated 5.5L diesel engine, the 1000 Super was well-positioned to handle heavy cultivation, deep plowing, and transport work, while still being versatile enough for day-to-day utility use.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Fiat 1000 Super is the robust Fiat 8065.05 diesel engine, a 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled powerplant known for its torque and reliability. This engine produces 108.5 hp at 2400 rpm, and users appreciated its consistent output, even under load. With a bore and stroke of 102 x 120 mm and a compression ratio of 17:1, it offered strong low-end torque essential for draft work. Its direct injection system improved fuel efficiency, while the dry-type air cleaner and pressurized cooling system contributed to long-term engine health, especially in dusty field conditions. Farmers often praised the engine for its ease of maintenance, durability, and minimal fuel consumption relative to its size.
Transmission and Driveline
The transmission options on the 1000 Super added to its versatility. The standard 12-speed gear transmission (12 forward, 4 reverse) offered good coverage for most operations, but many opted for the 16-speed version with creeper gears for slow, high-torque jobs such as planting or orchard work. The gearboxes were mechanically basic but exceptionally durable, with dry dual-disc clutches and mechanical differential locks that could withstand long hours in the field. The tractor was available in both 2WD and 4WD versions, the latter greatly improving traction and pulling capacity in soft or hilly terrain. Final drives used planetary gear systems, further contributing to long-term reliability and ease of servicing.
Hydraulics and PTO
A major strength of the Fiat 1000 Super was its hydraulic system. It featured an open-center hydraulic layout with a pump delivering 11.1 gallons per minute—sufficient for a wide range of implements. With draft and position control and a 3-point hitch lift capacity of 7056 lbs, the tractor could handle large implements such as plows, subsoilers, and heavy cultivators. Rear hydraulic remotes were offered with up to two valves, which for the time was competitive. The independent PTO with 540/1000 rpm selection gave operators flexibility for a range of PTO-driven equipment. The mechanical engagement was simple, sturdy, and rarely problematic if maintained properly.
Operator Environment and Design
The Fiat 1000 Super was designed with operator functionality in mind, though not necessarily comfort by modern standards. Most units came with an open operator station, though cabs were optional in some markets. Controls were mechanical and straightforward, with good visibility over the hood and fenders. Power steering and wet disc brakes enhanced control and safety during long workdays or in transport. The overall dimensions and weight of the tractor gave it stability in the field without compromising maneuverability, especially with its relatively narrow width for the horsepower class.
Common Issues
While the Fiat 1000 Super has a reputation for toughness, some recurring issues have been reported by long-time owners. The gear shifting can become stiff over time, particularly in cold conditions or when maintenance is neglected. Hydraulic leaks may develop from worn seals or neglected fluid changes, though these are typically easy to repair. Some owners also noted that the optional creeper transmission could be noisy and prone to gear wear if not engaged carefully. Electrical issues are rare but can arise in models with added lighting or cab wiring retrofits. Overall, most problems stem from age or neglect rather than design flaws.
Advantages
– Strong and reliable Fiat 6-cylinder diesel engine
– High lift capacity and excellent hydraulic power
– Simple mechanical design, easy to repair and maintain
– Available 4WD and creeper gear options for versatility
– Good value in the used market with strong parts availability
Disadvantages
– Basic operator comfort with limited cab features
– Aging models may require gearbox or hydraulic seal service
– Mechanical PTO and clutch systems require periodic adjustment
– Noisy operation by modern standards
The Fiat 1000 Super is a classic example of a powerful, no-nonsense tractor built for hard work and long service life. Its rugged engine, flexible transmission options, and strong hydraulics made it a reliable partner in heavy agricultural operations. Even decades after its production ended, the 1000 Super remains in service on farms around the world—a testament to its enduring build quality and practical design. For farmers who value mechanical simplicity, field power, and long-term dependability, the Fiat 1000 Super is still a worthy investment and a symbol of Fiat Trattori’s engineering legacy.
