Lubricant compositions for u se in traction drives are disclosed which incorporate a selected hydrocarbon type of base oils combined with specified amounts of selected zinc dialkyldithio phosphates, alkenyl succinimides or their boron derivatives, carboxylic acid esters of polyalcohols. These compositions provide traction drive apparatus with prolonged fatigue life, high oxidation stability, high shear stability, high traction coeffeicient, high wear resistance and rust-proofness.