Challenger 85D vs John Deere 8970
Side-by-side specs comparison
Verdict by the numbers
- The John Deere 8970 is more powerful than the Challenger 85D: 400 HP versus 370 HP (+30 HP, +8%).
- The Challenger 85D is the more recent model: production started in 1996, versus 1993 for the John Deere 8970.
Full specs comparison
| Challenger 85D | John Deere 8970 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 370 HP | 400 HP |
| Production years | 1996–1997 | 1993–1996 |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Cylinders | 6 | 6 |
| Displacement | 11.9 L | 14 L |
| Weight | — | 15 265 kg |
| Drive | — | 4WD |
| Transmission | Power shift | Partial power shift |
| Gears (fwd/rev) | 10 / 2 | 12 / 3 |
| Wheelbase | — | 340 cm |
| Length | — | 683 cm |
| Cab | Yes | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
Which is more powerful, the Challenger 85D or the John Deere 8970?
The John Deere 8970 is more powerful than the Challenger 85D: 400 HP versus 370 HP (+30 HP, +8%).
Which is more recent, the Challenger 85D or the John Deere 8970?
The Challenger 85D is the more recent model: production started in 1996, versus 1993 for the John Deere 8970.

