Production years
1961-1971
David Brown tractor ยท 1961-1971
David Brown 880 Tractor
Built at Meltham, Yorkshire, from 1961 to 1971, the David Brown 880 was a popular British three-cylinder diesel tractor. Its 2.5 L engine produced about 46 hp. From 1965 it gained Selectamatic hydraulics, reinforcing its reputation as a useful and well-regarded all-round farm machine.
Engine
2.5 L three-cylinder diesel
Power
About 46 hp
Weight
Approx. 1,900 kg
David Brown 880 specifications
| Production years | 1961-1971 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5 L three-cylinder diesel |
| Power | About 46 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed (12/4 optional); multi-speed PTO |
| Weight | Approx. 1,900 kg |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Hydraulics | Selectamatic (from 1965), three-point linkage, differential lock |
| Built at | Meltham, Yorkshire |
What the 880 is used for
The 880 was designed for broad everyday work on British farms, including cultivation, grassland work, haulage and mounted implements. It has a six-speed transmission, with a 12/4 option, plus a multi-speed PTO and differential lock; later tractors have Selectamatic hydraulics.
Today it is valued as a working vintage tractor, particularly where a compact but purposeful diesel is wanted for light smallholding jobs. Well-presented examples also have a strong place at David Brown gatherings and agricultural shows.
Why the David Brown 880 stands out
For enthusiasts, the 880 offers the character of David Brown's three-cylinder diesel alongside long production and widespread British use. Selectamatic-equipped examples are especially sought after, and owner clubs provide useful knowledge. Check expectations against its age: controls are period-correct, and neglected PTO, hydraulics, brakes or gearbox components can make an apparently tidy tractor costly to sort.
Buying a used David Brown 880
Check the 2.5 L three-cylinder diesel for starting, smoke, even running and satisfactory oil pressure. Test every gear, identify whether a 12/4 transmission is fitted, and confirm that the multi-speed PTO, differential lock and linkage operate properly. On later examples, examine Selectamatic hydraulic performance under load. Inspect brakes, tyres, bonnet, tinwork, serial details and registration. Have it inspected, confirm figures and originality against TractorData.com and club records, and remember values vary by condition, so check current listings rather than a fixed price.
David Brown 880 frequently asked questions
What power does a David Brown 880 have?
The David Brown 880 produces about 46 hp from its 2.5 L three-cylinder diesel engine. That output helped make it a popular all-rounder, with enough usefulness for many traditional farm tasks while retaining a manageable vintage tractor size.
When did the David Brown 880 receive Selectamatic hydraulics?
The 880 gained the Selectamatic hydraulic system in 1965. It has a three-point linkage, and the model is also specified with a differential lock. Earlier and later tractors should therefore be identified carefully when assessing equipment and originality.
Did every David Brown 880 have a 12/4 gearbox?
No. The standard transmission was six-speed, while a 12/4 transmission was optional. Before buying, verify the actual gearbox fitted rather than assuming that every 880 carries the optional arrangement, and test its operation during an inspection.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Used tractor values vary by condition and region. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.