Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): walk behind gas mower question, john deere self, front wheel drive vs rear wheel drive

Question
I have been researching buying what I hope is my final walk behind gas powered lawn mower.  I understand most of the specs, but when it comes to front wheel drive vs rear wheel drive, I'm stumped.  Which is better?
I will be mowing mostly flat, slightly sloping lawns with some unevenness due to tree roots and old mole runs.  Because some of the lawn is very thick Bermuda grass, I have more and more trouble plowing through it as the years go by, so would a self propelled mower be the answer to this problem?  I've also read of self-paced mowers.  Are these the same thing?
I've heard that Honda motors are better than some others.  What is your opinion?
I will certainly appreciate your feedback.  Thanks.

Answer
Hello Patty:

Everyone has Their Opinion on Mowers. I Prefer the Lawn Boy, Aluminum Deck 2 Cycle Push Mower. It is a Pain to Some to Mix the Gas and Oil, but I Use the Same Fuel Mix in the Trimmers and Other 2 Cycle Engines I have. If you Go with a Mower and want it to be the Last One you Purchase; then go with a Commercial Duty Mower (even the Lawn Boy). Usually the Home Owner Grade Mowers have Plastic Wheels and Cheaper Hardware. The Commercial Grade Mowers have Ball Bearing Wheels and Roll Easier and have Better Hardware. I Do Not Like Honda because of the Internal Timing Belt. We have a Few Yards that are 100% Bermuda Grass and the Self Propelled Lawn Boy Seems to do the Job with Little or No Effort. If you want a Regular Gas Mower, then I Suggest the John Deere Self Propelled Commercial Push Mower. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John