Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I am looking for a new mower.  From reading the forums, I prefer a Briggs & Stratton or Honda engine.  My ceiling is $400 before coupon (I have a 20% off coupon that I can use at Home Depot or Lowe's). 

My requirements are self-propelled, rear-bag and mulching.

I have narrowed my choice down to two mowers:

1)  Honda HRR216TDA - Honda GCV160 5.5 hp engine (Home Depot)

2)  John Deere JS20 - B&S 6.75 hp engine (this mower is new at Lowe's)

Any preferences between these two?  Any other suggestions?  Thanks in advance!

my opinion is it get the john deere if your looking to keep your machine a long time 5 yrs plus The honda is a great machine but in long term { 5yrs +} you will pay in parts & labour For example {not real prices} a carb for an b&s is 25 bucks for a honda is like 75 bucks same thing for an air filter and ect ect mind you a honda engine are great till they break down {ya they do break down} Mark