Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Small engine question, honda dealers, honda engine

Question
Dear Sir, I am thinking through the purchase of a relatively new tow behind brush/finish mower w/ a 100" cut.   Made by Stanley,there are two identical versions being marketed (excepting the engine).   The yellow version sold by Sears (branded as "Stanley") has a 530cc Honda engine while the orange version sold by Home Depot (branded "The Beast") has a 653cc Subaru engine.  I am NOT a mechanic.  I've read that this product was "suspended" at introduction due to insufficient engine size...and reintroduced with the two engines above.  Costing well over $3,000 with the only difference being the engine, I need your help.  Which engine--the Honda or Subaru--has the best track record in terms of power and reliability?   Given the 100" cut and claims of "Commercial grade" and "brush" or "finish", is the 123cc difference material?    Please help me analyze this given the significant cost involved.   Thank you for your time!

Answer
WOW, that's a huge price difference.  With a 100" cut I would think you'd notice a big difference with a larger engine.  Both engines are very good, I prefer the Subaru over the Honda but Honda parts are easier to find, more Honda dealers.

You could always buy the less expensive model and replace the engine but by the time you purchase a larger engine and mount it you will probalby not save very much money.

If you are just planning to use the mower as a finishing mower you will probably be fine with the smaller engine as long you keep the grass cut regularly.  If you plan on mowing brush in the 52" mode then the larger engine would not have to work as hard and you will probably get more life out of the engine.

What is your primary reason/purpose for the machine?

Eric