John Deere are really durable...so the older one also seems a good deal and you proably won't use it excessively.

Here is a link that might be useful: used compact tractors

parkgt,

I would rather spend $2700 vs. $3200. As far as the hours, although the '96 is older, both have averaged about 50 hours each per year. I have never heard anything negative about the Kawasaki water cooled 18 hp engine. In fact, these engines are said to last some 2000+ hours. Essentially a life time for the average home owner I would think. With good care of course.

Have you considered the JD GT series mowers? You can pick up a 2001 - 2005 GT235/245 with 300 (+,-) hours anywhere from $1700 - $3000. Something to consider...These too are very capable machines and you may find a newer machine with less hours and less money spent. Yes, I have a GT and it is a great machine.

Good luck