I hp per acre is a pretty good rule of thumb. I’d be looking in the 60-80 hp range. I’d also be looking at pre-tier 4 used models. Unless you are south of the Mason Dixon line, I’d skip the cab.
Open field mowing under a big canopy, is very comfortable for me, even under the hot summer sun. I am up north, near the Canadian border. The motion of the tractor always makes a nice breeze and the canopy keeps me in the shade.
Something like 3020 John Deere would be about right, as would a Ford 5000. Those would be 2wd and without loaders. They were both good dependable tractors and are easy to find parts for. There are still lots of them around so it should be easy to find one in good shape for a decent price.
If you think that you need a 4 wd with a loader, your going to have to spend a lot more money (probably at least 2x). If mowing is your primary task then I see no need for 4wd.
Open field mowing under a big canopy, is very comfortable for me, even under the hot summer sun. I am up north, near the Canadian border. The motion of the tractor always makes a nice breeze and the canopy keeps me in the shade.
Something like 3020 John Deere would be about right, as would a Ford 5000. Those would be 2wd and without loaders. They were both good dependable tractors and are easy to find parts for. There are still lots of them around so it should be easy to find one in good shape for a decent price.
If you think that you need a 4 wd with a loader, your going to have to spend a lot more money (probably at least 2x). If mowing is your primary task then I see no need for 4wd.