10.46 hp (drawbar), 66.4 cu. in. L-head vertical-twin engine, three-speed manual transmission, articulated front axle, live un-sprung rear axle, and two-wheel mechanical brakes. Wheelbase: 61.5"

• Classic compact “Johnny Popper”

• Fully restored

Arguably the first of what are now called “compact tractors,” the John Deere Model L was introduced in 1937. Like the larger John Deeres, it had a twin-cylinder engine, but unlike its larger siblings it used a vertical rather than horizontal layout and a foot- rather than hand-operated clutch. Aimed at the small farmer, its engine developed 10.46 horsepower at the drawbar.

In 1941, the Model L was given a facelift with what is now called a “styled” hood and grille, as the company adopted Henry Dreyfuss designs for its equipment. A slightly larger Model LA joined the L that year, easily differentiated by its cast iron rear wheels. Both models were discontinued in 1946.

This 1946 Model LA is a nicely-restored unit and is correctly presented for the era, painted in the traditional green and yellow motif. Instrumentation consists simply of oil pressure and ammeter gauges, and there is a single headlight. It is fitted with new Power Mark agricultural tires, 9.50x24 rear and 4.00x15 in front. Old “Johnny Poppers” have a loyal following. One only has to hear them running to know why.