[SulleyBear]

I am going to likely get slaughtered here for this, but after months of research, I could not warrant the price difference between 1023 and 1025 (if I recall right, I was looking at $3K or $4K difference in quotes). Cosmetic stuff, if it matters this much, you can add. While there is 10% difference in power (on paper), $3K is not. What I did not spend on 1025 is basically going into implements. Yet to spend that $3K too, since I have been only getting the used or close-out stuff.
Now look, I have fully loaded cars... and 1025 is like a fully-loaded car. Except in the car world you could (pre-pandemic) get some super sweet deals. Don't see that in tractor world. Higher the spec, the lower the discount. At least in my area.
Ready for them angry emoticons from 1025 owners

GTT is a highly regarded source of John Deere Machine information by many potential and actual machine owners. While all have thier own opinions and some have more of a bias than others, one thing I strive to always post is accurate information. This means verifying data, researching and providing accurate information which others can rely upon.

While much of what is posted on GTT are the opinions and personal experiences of its members, its important that when stating "facts" about something, they be accurate. Also, our descriptions are important because many repeat them and rely upon them to make decisions which have long term implications. Let's begin with are the differences truly cosmetic or are they functional and alter the machine operators experiences?

Cosmetic, according to Websters dictionary, is defined as - ""Decorative, ornamental, not substantive, superficial. Done or made for the sake of appearance"".

The primary differences between the two machines are functional operations and engine power. Here is an itemized comparison of the differences between the two machines.

Functional Operation Differences between the 1023e and the 1025r​

Seats
23e - Base low back non suspended seat
25r - High back seat with arm rests for improved comfort, on a spring suspension system

Steering
23e - Non adjustable, single position steering wheel location
25r - Tilt adjustable steering wheel

Cruise Control
23e - Not available
25r - Dash mounted to set machine speed and remove foot from directional pedals and continue

3 Point Hitch Operational Control
23e - Basic lift function
25r - Set the position and go and more precision in 3ph operation typically found in larger 4wd machines.

Engine HP and Torque
23e - 22.4 hp and 15.3 ft lbs of torque
25r - 23.9 hp and 18 ft lbs of torque

Operator Lighting
23e - Front headlights
25r - Front Headlights, Side mounted work lights

Operator Comforts by Machine Model
23e - N/A
25r - Tool box on bracket, 12v power outlet, rubber foot mat on operator's platform

Cosmetic Difference
25r - Operator Platform trim and bezels

Machine Retail price on John Deere Website as of 12/27/2021
23e - $13,835
25r - $15,970 ($2,135 price difference at full retail price)

The majority of the differences between the machine are in the machines functional operation and improved operator comfort. The only true "cosmetic" difference are the operator platform bezels and trim on the 1025r which are not on the 1023e. These don't alter the operation of the machine as much as it enhances its appearance.

Also, the difference in the base machine retail price is $2,135 and not the claimed $3,000 (to $4,000). That's a 28% price difference (lower) between the actual price difference between the two machines or the claimed price difference, which needs to be considered when making such decisions.

I really could care less what machine another person purchases. I do care, that they are relying on accurate information when considering the opinions and comments of others, so the decision they arrive at is based upon factual consideration more than entirely on opinions.

Some have bought the 1023e and then added the seat, operator platform mat and trim bezels of the 1025r. Whether someone owns a 1023e, a 1025r or any other machine, as long as they are happy and satisfied with their purchase, that's what matters.That's their choice and their money.