It was my impression that the 3203 was an addition to John Deere's line up and not intended to replace the 790. If you really want a 790, I would check with another dealer to confirm that story. Except for similar engine power, there are quite a few differences between the 3203 and 790 to suggest that the 3203 isn't a replacement. The most significant being that the 790 is a gear tractor vs. the hydrostatic drive of the 3203.
Your post mentioned that the 3203 doesn't have "mid hyd" which I assume you mean the hydraulic outlets on the right side just ahead of the platform. This information is not true. The 3203 does have a standard duel hydraulic valve with the couplers in the same location as the other 3000 series. You cannot however get a 3rd rear outlet, which is available on the 3000 series.
You also cannot get a mid-PTO, so no belly mower or front snowblower for this tractor.
From a size and weight standpoint, I think the 3203 is actually a heavier duty tractor than the 790. It appears to me that a 3000 series drivetrain (which goes up to 40 HP or more in a 3720) was defeatured to provide a lower cost hydro option.
From my casual observation here are the difference between the two:
Transmission: 3203 HST, 790 Gear
PTO: 3203 electrohydraulic, 790 mechanical with two stage foot clutch.
Mid PTO: Available for 790, not for 3203.
Seat: 790 has a better seat
Platform: 3203 much nicer (similar to other 3000 Series)
Noise: It seemed to me that the 3203 was louder. Probably because of the higher speed engine and less engine coverage.
3 pt lift capacity: Check the specs, but I am sure the 3203 can lift substantially more weight.
Weight: 3203 is a bigger/heavier tractor.
