Which John Deere Garden Tractor?

[OutbackL130]

I'm looking for a 10 - 14 year old john deere garden tractor to replace my old john deere 420. I want it to be similar in features with power steering, hydraulic deck lift and the option for a 3pt hitch. Just looking for a newer mower that will last a long time. I have 3 acres with some rugged pastures. Which model should I look at in this year range? My budget is $2500.

I get confused with all the different series. Which is the best for what I need?

So far I like this 335.
2000 John Deere 335 Garden Tractor with 48" Mowing Deck Good Condition | eBay

 

[beenthere]

Similar to the 420 would be the 425, 445, or 455. And all are solid JD tractors. IMO

 

[Deere Dude]

I went from a 420 to a 445 /455 I believe it was; not sure wich anymore. The wife hated the change. The 445 was physically smaller and felt smaller riding it. The 445/455 carried the same sized deck and was a little stronger which was a plus. If you are running on rugged hilly bumpy stuff I am not sure I would go much smaller than what you have. They have the option of a 3 point hitch, which I really like but they are very expensive. I don't know for sure but i don't think the 300 series has that capability.

One time I had the older 420 with 60" deck and bought a new 285 with 54" deck with bagger and cab and a few extras. After mowing 3 times I got rid of the 285 and stuck with the 420 until the 445/455 came along a few years later.

Many years later I switched to a X585 which are about the same as a 420, but those are pricey but nice. They ride about they same as a 420. I am a big guy so they fit rather well.