Pick a make and model. Full spec sheet, owner videos, and similar tractors on one page.
Find a model →Pit up to four models against each other. Engine, hydraulics, hitch, weight, warranty.
Open comparison →Written guides on choosing tractors, hydraulics, PTO, hitches, and maintenance.
Read articles →This video's hook, that one horsepower difference signals far bigger capability gaps, drives a structured side-by-side of the 2038R and 3039R covering base weights, loader options and lift capacity, belly mower compatibility, backhoe choices, mid-PTO availability, cab options, and an roughly $8,000 price gap. It's a talking-head walkaround with real numbers rather than a hands-on demo, best suited to shoppers narrowing down between these two series before buying.
Good Works Tractors is a dealership and tractor-attachment retailer that sells the exact units shown, so the comparison is informed but carries an inherent sales interest.
The 2038R has a base weight of 2400 pounds with no attachments, while the 3 series tractor comes in at 2900 pounds base weight.
Yes, the mid PTO is standard on every 2R tractor. On the 3R series many used units lack it, though it can be field added.
No, a factory cab with air conditioning is not available on the 2R. You would need to go with the 3R to get that option.
The 2R has one loader option, the 220R. The 3R offers two options, a base loader and the better H165 or 320R loader.
| John Deere 2038R | John Deere 3039R | |
|---|---|---|
| PTO horsepower | 30.4 hp | 31.1 hp |
| Loader lift capacity | 1,949 lbf (at pivot pin) | 300R: 2,855 lbf; 320R: 3,327 lbf (at pivot pin) |
| 3-point lift capacity | Not Published | 2,530 lb at hitch ball |
| Hydraulic flow | 5.3 gpm | 9.1 gpm |
