I agree with several (but not all) things posted here.
To respond to the original post, dmanspadge requirements sound relatively light and a LT might work but... a couple things to consider as it applies to the 20+ year longevity issue.
How well will the tractor be maintained? If you aren't real big on cleaning out the mower deck, leave the machine or attachments outside, a LT may not hold up for that long. A GT has a heavier deck and can withstand a lot more years of abuse and rusting.
Will the requirements change over a period of 20 years? If much of anything changes over that period (e.g. moving to a larger place), a GT is more versatile and more attachments are available. (dmanspadge - your profile is empty - are you grading or clearing snow on the driveway). A snow blower may be an option if in the north over the years.
Personally, I like the selections of bontai_Joe, Bob and GreenRules. I have more trust in the quality, serviceability and parts availability of the higher-end machines. If these are out of the $ range, it's pick and choose what feels best of the rest of the pack. Almost all are made by MTD so many are comparable in many areas.
As for Consumer Reports. I've let my subscription lapse as well. I used to use them as a reference and they did provide some insight as to things I hadn't pondered (like the talking heads on TV). An example of where I didn't care much for their review was in the case of my SUV. When I bought it they listed it as the cream of the crop. By the time their annual buying guide came out, it was the bottom of the heap. I've had for years now and have never encountered any of the things they stated for their change in the vehicles recommendation.
To respond to the original post, dmanspadge requirements sound relatively light and a LT might work but... a couple things to consider as it applies to the 20+ year longevity issue.
How well will the tractor be maintained? If you aren't real big on cleaning out the mower deck, leave the machine or attachments outside, a LT may not hold up for that long. A GT has a heavier deck and can withstand a lot more years of abuse and rusting.
Will the requirements change over a period of 20 years? If much of anything changes over that period (e.g. moving to a larger place), a GT is more versatile and more attachments are available. (dmanspadge - your profile is empty - are you grading or clearing snow on the driveway). A snow blower may be an option if in the north over the years.
Personally, I like the selections of bontai_Joe, Bob and GreenRules. I have more trust in the quality, serviceability and parts availability of the higher-end machines. If these are out of the $ range, it's pick and choose what feels best of the rest of the pack. Almost all are made by MTD so many are comparable in many areas.
As for Consumer Reports. I've let my subscription lapse as well. I used to use them as a reference and they did provide some insight as to things I hadn't pondered (like the talking heads on TV). An example of where I didn't care much for their review was in the case of my SUV. When I bought it they listed it as the cream of the crop. By the time their annual buying guide came out, it was the bottom of the heap. I've had for years now and have never encountered any of the things they stated for their change in the vehicles recommendation.
