280kW+ TRACTORS
Page 49
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SHORTLIST
lveco Ford 190.48 Leyland Daf 95.400 Mercedes-Benz 2448 Scania R143.470 Testers' Choice: Leyland Daf 95.400 Not surprisingly, all the tractors we tested in this class offer superb performance, and for the owner-driver in a hurry the attraction is clear. In general, however, these premium rigs are also a heavier, thirstier and above all more expensive option.
The only twin-steer in our shortlist is the Mercedes-Benz 2448. We liked the general handling and driveability of Merc's flagship, and approved of the quality of finish in the full-width G cab, but would have liked a proper high-roof version to ease changing.
Though the 2448 is not as expensive as you might expect, its poor fuel consumption and not surprisingly hefty kerbweight scored against it.
Another truck which is not as productive as it might be is the Iveco Ford TurboStar 190.48, with its kerbweight of well over eight tonnes. However, its massive 17.2-litre vee-eight does offer awesome reserves of power, and being lightly stressed holds the promise of considerable durability.
Electronics also played a big part in the third of our shortlisted vehicles, the Scania R143.470. This was our first test truck to boast EDC (Electronic Diesel Control), and our impression is generally a favourable one. We were impressed by the Scania's economy (39.21it/100km/7.20mpg), while at the same time being surprised by the way we took to the cruise control system, which offers worthwhile gains in driver comfort on a long haul. It is no coincidence, however, that our Testers' Choice is the cheapest, most economical, and lightest machine in the group — the Leyland Daf 95.400. It could be said that even the top of the 95 range is out of its depth in this company, having only six cylinders, displacing a meagre 11.6 litres, and putting out a 'mere' 295kW (396hp).
But the fact remains that in spite of its apparent disadvantages, the Leyland Daf completed our 1,180km Scottish test route at an average speed to match any of its big-block rivals, yet consumed diesel at the amazingly modest rate of 38.31it/ 100km (7.38mpg).
The 95.400 may not quite have the massive urge or the image of its competitors, but there is little wrong with its cab comfort, and its price tag is a lot less substantial.
That must be a powerful argument at the present time.