Looking at the Husky web site, it shows the GT52's can be had with any of the 3, B&S Kawasaki or Kohler, with the Kohler being the lowest priced at 3199.00.
What's really misleading about HP numbers, is it's the torque that does the work. The Kohler MIGHT have produced the 15hp claimed, but at a sacrifice to torque. I had an old Murray with the 20hp side valve opposed twin, that lost a valve seat. The replacement engine for that one was recommended at 24hp to compensate for the lower torque. Horse power can be had fairly easily from RPM. For example, a smaller displacement but higher revving (SHORT STROKE) engine might produce equal hp to a larger displacement but lower revving (longer stroke) engine. Torque requires higher compression and more fuel and often longer strokes.
My 2005 Accord 3.0L v6 puts out 240hp, but about 170lbft of torque. The current 1/2 ton Dodge 3.0L v6 diesel also puts out 240hp, but 420lbft of torque.
Imagine putting my Honda engine in the Dodge truck????? Same rated horsepower!
I will say that the first 2 times I mowed with my Husky/Kawasaki combo, it put the old Murray to shame. The field grass I mow is often 2ft tall when I first start mowing, so big power (torque) was important for my needs.
