24 volt is just a better starting system in cold climates, although it has some drawbacks. As I understand it, there were only 2 versions for different areas of the world - warm countries, and cold countries. Europe got the cold climate version that included the radiator fan.
Nowadays, it is easier for manufacturers to make more country specific models with various changes, but back then it wasn't so.
Nowadays, it is easier for manufacturers to make more country specific models with various changes, but back then it wasn't so.