shane

My understanding is that toro contracted MTD to build their lawntractors. The reason being that 50% of the lawn tractor sales are under $1800 and TORO's previous XL series was higher priced than that market.   

Reduce quality and sell more or keep quality and sell less.

My 20 year old wheel horse will probably still out last these new tractors. But everyone has them, John Deere, Cub etc. I see why they are doing it but, but that doesn't mean I like it.

No differance, a 2004 model serial number will start with 2500 and 2005 - 2600