If you are going to use a tractor for something other than a toy, you need to stay away from the 8N era of tractors of any brand
Some things you would want on a tractor you are going to use:
>Live PTO, meaning the pto is powered with the clutch in (this is a given on the hydrostat models)
>Power steering (a must for loader work)
>4wd; if you didn't think you need it, why are you on this site?
>If you get a loader, remote hydraulic connection at the bucket is great (operate a brush grapple, 4 in 1 bucket etc)..also get the "bob-tach" option for loader tool connections
> the tractor needs to have at least one rear hyd remote in addition to the loader valve. Some loaders use the rear remote connections for the loader, tying up the tractor hyd such that the loader has to be removed to use other hyd equipment. This rear hyd remote will operate a trail-type bush hog lift cylinder or a log splitter for instance.
>Glow plugs for cold start (Thermostart does not do well; read on)
I grew up on an H Farmall and an A John Deere. These are tough old machines but have none of the above but the rear hyd remote.
My more modern tractor (1989 year model) is a Massey Ferguson 390 (75 HP, 2WD) with no loader (have 743 Bobcat and an OLD Ford backhoe for loader work). The 390 does not start well at temps below 30 degrees ( the bobcat Kubota diesel has glow plugs and will start at 10 degrees with no problem; use it to feed cow herd when below freezing) . The 390 has a start-assist called Thermostart that builds a small flame via a heating element and diesel fuel in the intake manifold to preheat the intake air. I have replaced this unit several times and it just is not the best way to go. Once running, the Perkins engine is great and is very fuel-efficient. I run this machine about 60 hours a year cutting hay, spreading fertilizer, bushhogging 65 acres of pasture, and feeding the cows almost every day during winter.