M5-111 vs M6-131

[Incattle]

I’m struggling trying decide between these two tractors. 250 acres but the tractor will only be mowing or haying. Small round bales (4x5) maybe - but I’d rather buy hay and run more cows., but some terrain to deal with. I think I’d like the ride of the M6 better, but the $25,000 difference tells me to buy the M5.

Any thoughts to insights to guide me?

 

[jimr63]

Can’t offer advice on this specific dilemma because I don't bale hay but $25k seems like a lot of money for the small hp increase. What else comes with that price difference? Weight? I can tell you I love my M5-091. I grow corn/soybeans and have my GVW up around 12k lbs in order to pull a 14’ offset tandem disc at 5mph but other than having to add all the weight the M5-091 has plenty of power for my needs. What are the hp requirements for the most demanding task you plan on accomplishing?

 

[Incattle]

The M5 has 9 pto hp and the 131 has 104. I assume I will need at least 85 for a 15 ft batwing mower or a swather. I don’t know if the 111 will be enough? The M6 is bigger, longer, wider so I assume it will be a smoother ride too. But the price difference is a monster. It’s my understanding the M6-131 moves to a different engine and has more Ag-type upgrade vs the M5 that’s still more in a utility class.