Key differences
- The Sonalika MM 18 has 100 kg more lifting capacity than the Eicher 188 - useful for heavy implements like a reversible plough, a loaded trailer or a potato planter.
- The Sonalika MM 18 has 39 cc more engine capacity than the Eicher 188.
- The Eicher 188 has 11 litres more fuel capacity than the Sonalika MM 18 - fewer refuelling stops on long field days.
- At ex-showroom prices the Eicher 188 starts about ₹10,000 lower than the Sonalika MM 18, roughly ₹183 a month less on a 5-year loan for 90% at 8%.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eicher 188 | Sonalika MM 18 |
|---|---|---|
| HP | 18 | 18 |
| Ex-showroom price | ₹3.1-3.6 lakh | ₹3.2-3.7 lakh |
| EMI (90% loan, 8%, 5 yr) | ₹5,657/month | ₹5,840/month |
| Engine capacity (cc) | 825 | 864 |
| Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| Rated RPM | not published | 2,300 |
| PTO HP | 15.3 | not published |
| Lifting capacity (kg) | 700 | 800 |
| Gears | 8 F + 2 R | 6 F + 2 R |
| Drive | 2WD | not published |
| Clutch | Single clutch | Single Clutch |
| Brakes | Oil Immersed Brakes | OIB (Oil Immersed Brake) |
| Steering | Mechanical Steering | Mechanical Steering |
| Fuel tank (litres) | 29 | 18 |
| Weight (kg) | 806 | not published |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 1,410 | not published |
| Warranty | 1000 Hour or 1 Year | not published |
Specs from each maker's spec page / official spec page (closest listed variant). Prices are indicative ex-showroom; on-road price adds registration, insurance and dealer charges and varies by state.
Which one should you buy?
Match the tractor to your heaviest regular job. If you run a reversible plough, a loaded trolley or a potato planter, lifting capacity matters most. If most of your work is rotavator, thresher or pump, compare PTO HP. Then get on-road quotes for both from dealers near you, and check how far the nearest authorised service centre is - for a 10-year machine, service distance matters as much as a few HP.