I had a Snapper RER and got rid of it for a JD Rider because with the small deck (28") and terrible turning radius (the little front tires push quite a bit when turning at any reasonable speed) it took longer to mow than it did with my 22" Toro Push. My lawn is ~1/2 acre, mostly flat as well. The Snappers are very reliable and built like a tank (ride like a tank too), just get a bigger deck and you would probably be alright. As you might have surmised, I would go with the 120.

That's a tuff choice for me. The JD will be nicer to drive, and have better steering and handling, but the Snapper should be better built and last longer. In St Augustine grass you will be, or should be sharpening your blades quite often, the ability to put the Snapper up on end and get to the blades would be very nice. I vote Snapper.
steve

Have you thought about a commercial walk-behind 36" mower? You can buy a brand new Better Outdoor Products mower for $2k, or you can find used ones for much less. The quality would be much higher than either of the riders you're looking at. If I only had 1/3 acre, that's what I'd do. It would make quick work of 1/3 acre, and get you a little exercise in the process.

Here is a link that might be useful: Better Outdoor Products Link

Agree with passthegravy, although I recently invested in an LA120 (2/3 acre w/some hills). In most cases ride-on machines are considered better ROI when one surpasses 1/2 acre (just a casual observation, not science).

I sure would not drop 2 grand on a RER Snapper, good as they are. You can get good used ones for less that half that amount.

shagg is right. I bought mine in like new condition from a coworker for $500.

Thanks All, I'll probably go with the base model Snapper RER. It's only $1,099 at the dealer. (though that RE200 looks nice too) I like the retro styling and ability to see better, plus it will fit in my GMC Safari.

Just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading these forums, spent all last night and yesterday afternoon reading posts. Thanks!!!

Please at least check the used market before paying for a new Snapper. These things are bullet proof and are very frequently for sale at $400 to $500. They are all over in the Southeast. I assume you are in the Southeast with St. Augustine Grass.
steve