Ask your wife which tractor she thinks is sexier, then go with the opposite one.
Not sure what John Deere tractors go for, but I have one that's been VERY dependable for the last 5 years.
I don't have any advice to offer since I know nothing about tractors, but that's a very nice present to give to your father.
My husband has a John Deere X595 that he uses for our 3-acre property. It's a diesel with a 62-inch mowing deck. It's very reliable and accommodates a lot of attachments, such as a cart, 3-bag bagging system, snow plow and spreader. A few weeks ago, we used it to right a 20 ft. plum tree that had fallen over in the yard. They are more expensive than the ones you are considering, but they will last a life time with proper care.
I know nothing about Cub Cadet, but I beat the crap out of my Craftsman Garden Tractor with the 20 hp Kohler(?) engine. This is my 6th season and all I did, besides change the oil, was replace the battery this year.
I bought a craftsman tractor recently b/c the new Deere lawn tractors used the same components; the sears was $400 less. I would also consider supportability. Don't but the Sears MA, but consider service options on the CC: haul it to a mower shop, on site support, etc. I would expect most shops carry CC parts if your pop is DIY guy.
Nearly equal IMO, it comes down to maintenance, and usability (look, feel, seat, ride, comfort) for me.
I have online access to Consumer Reports so FReepmail me if you need further info
There can be a considerable difference between machines as to the driver's seat, comfort, positioning, etc..if the price is the same..take him to both dealers, let HIM drive them both...see which one he likes..
Los Inmigrantes Ilegales - Specializing in those jobs that even American blacks don't want to do
I'd check the warranty before you buy him a new lawnmower, I'm not sure any of the models listed are guaranteed for that long. So unless dad just likes to "do it himself", think about getting him a Mexican!
Both sound like a little overkill for the intended application, but are a damn fine gift. Want to adopt me as your dad? I would love a John Deere L110, hydrostatic drive with a bagger.
Seriously, a coworker has the similar model Sears tractor and has had persistent trouble with the transmission. No one else I know of has had a similar problem.
Like others have said, it's basically an apples to apples comparison, so comfort for your dad and service ease would be deciding factors.
There's not $10 difference in the two mowers. I have a Craftsman 18hp that is pretty much the same one you have listed - the one you have listed is just the new version. I have not had a lot of trouble out of it - other than blowing fuses for no apparent reason, and awfully short battery life. Deck belt is not very long lasting, Deck engagement cable broke last month - part has been on order for two weeks.... still waiting.
I actually am pretty hard on the mower.
If the same price - I personally would buy the Cub if presented with the same choice. Some nice features on the Cub that the Craftsman doesn't have. I don't know that the 13 guage vs. 12 guage (12 is thicker) will make much difference unless your dad is going to mow rocks! The deck cleaning system on the Cub also sound convenient.
What nice gift for your Father, either way!
If you really love him get him something with green paint (john deere)
I'm sure he would appreciate a V-twin.
I know you have listed a choice between the Cub and the Craftsman, but I'd offer that you look at a Snapper rear engine. I've owned several different kind, including a Craftsman. The one that I've had the longest and have liked the best is a 70's vintage Snapper rear engine. The new ones they sell are still basically the same. I like the articulating frame, the way it can be tilted up for servicing the under carriage and the way it cuts grass. My place is rough in places and I not only use it to keep one acre mowed, but I often go "bush hogging" with it to claim som more yard from the rest of the property when the blade gets dull. This one was given to me about 7 years ago. The 8hp was busted. I replaced it with a used, iron sleeved 10 hp and it's been going ever since. I may have spent $200 on tires,batteries, belts and other parts in that whole time.