The first one does actually have the best box. TLG was still using the see-through boxes with flaps and parts trays back then, while the later copies have the crappy modern boxes. That's probably the biggest difference between them though.

The 8439 from 2004 had the "bluish gray" parts instead of old greys one.

It also came with the newer pneumatic cylinder design. (the one without the square bottom)

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For a Technic builder, the 8439 is probably the best because it has parts that fits better with the new ones.

For a Technic collector, the 8459 is probably better because of its box.

Sorry to bring up a 2 month old tread but I recently bought the older version of this set 8459 and iv just built it tonight and all I can say is wow what a great set,the pneumatics work great with the air tank and it's a really good looking set,

I bought a new misb 8459 and it's so nice to see such an old set look brand new,it even has a working steering wheel inside the cab,i also noticed the tires seem more like real rubber than the ones out now,this set really brought me back to studded sets and they really are great,also the older box is so cool and the instructions actually seem a bit harder than the ones out now.anyway great set and if u havnt got one get it :)

I'm going to buy all the older pneumatic sets now :)

Sorry to bring up a 2 month old tread but I recently bought the older version of this set 8459 and iv just built it tonight and all I can say is wow what a great set,the pneumatics work great with the air tank and it's a really good looking set,

I bought a new misb 8459 and it's so nice to see such an old set look brand new,it even has a working steering wheel inside the cab,i also noticed the tires seem more like real rubber than the ones out now,this set really brought me back to studded sets and they really are great,also the older box is so cool and the instructions actually seem a bit harder than the ones out now.anyway great set and if u havnt got one get it :)

I'm going to buy all the older pneumatic sets now :)

See, I told you you'de like it

This one is my favorite front end loader, by far better than any other.

After all your very positive comments and recommendations I didn't have another choice but to order the youngest brother of 8459 :) MISB 8439 should be on my way soon

After all your very positive comments and recommendations I didn't have another choice but to order the youngest brother of 8459 :) MISB 8439 should be on my way soon

Unwont regret it,great set :) how much is ur 8439 costing u misb?