Production years
1995-2003
Claas combine ยท 1995-2003
Claas Lexion 480 Combine Harvester
The Claas Lexion 480 was the first Lexion, launched in 1995 and built at Harsewinkel, Germany until 2003. Its Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel produced about 330 hp. In Britain it is remembered as the combine that introduced APS hybrid threshing to the range and brought strikingly high capacity to larger cereal farms.
Engine
Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel, about 330 hp
Grain tank capacity
About 8,000 litres
Header width
Up to 9 m with CLAAS headers
Claas Lexion 480 specifications
| Production years | 1995-2003 |
|---|---|
| Threshing system | APS pre-separation with ROTO PLUS twin rotors (hybrid) |
| Engine | Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel, about 330 hp |
| Grain tank capacity | About 8,000 litres |
| Header width | Up to 9 m with CLAAS headers |
| Output | Up to about 40 tonnes of grain per hour |
| Built at | Harsewinkel, Germany |
What the Lexion 480 is used for
The Lexion 480 suits wheat, barley and oilseed rape on established British arable units needing a capable, conventional-era large combine. Its APS pre-separation and ROTO PLUS twin rotors were designed to keep crop moving when harvest conditions allow.
It can also appeal to smaller contracting businesses or mixed fleets where a 9 m CLAAS header is practical. Output depends heavily on crop, moisture, header choice, setup and field logistics, so it should be matched to realistic farm workloads.
Why the Claas Lexion 480 stands out
Its importance is the main attraction: the 480 introduced the APS hybrid layout, combining APS pre-separation with ROTO PLUS twin rotors. With an approximately 8,000-litre grain tank, headers up to 9 m and claimed output of up to about 40 tonnes of grain per hour, it marked a major capacity step. Age and service history now matter as much as headline output.
Buying a used Claas Lexion 480
Check the Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel from cold, looking for excessive smoke, poor oil pressure or signs of neglected servicing. Examine hydraulics, transmission response, brakes, grain-handling equipment, rotor and threshing areas, plus tinwork for corrosion. Confirm that header and tyre choices suit the intended work, and inspect serial and registration details, originality and records. Have it inspected. Confirm figures and originality against TractorData.com and club records; values vary by condition, so check current listings rather than a fixed price.
Claas Lexion 480 frequently asked questions
When was the Claas Lexion 480 built?
The Lexion 480 was produced from 1995 to 2003 at Claas's Harsewinkel factory in Germany. It was the very first Lexion and is significant for introducing the APS hybrid threshing concept to the line.
What engine and power does a Lexion 480 have?
It uses a Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel rated at about 330 hp. Buyers should treat that as the verified approximate power figure and assess the individual engine's condition and maintenance history separately.
What threshing system and capacity does it offer?
The 480 uses APS pre-separation with ROTO PLUS twin rotors, making it a hybrid combine. It has an approximately 8,000-litre grain tank, takes CLAAS headers up to 9 m, and could cut up to about 40 tonnes of grain per hour.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year, header and configuration, so confirm against the manufacturer's records and the machine's serial number. Weights, capacities and dimensions are converted to metric and rounded. Used combine values vary by condition and hours. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.