Cub Cadet vs John Deere 2017: A Comprehensive Comparison
When it comes to choosing the right lawn mower, two names often rise to the top: Cub Cadet and John Deere. Both brands have a rich history and reputation for quality, but which one is right for you? Let's take a closer look at the Cub Cadet vs John Deere 2017 models and see how they stack up.
Cub Cadet 2017 Models: An Overview
Cub Cadet offers a wide range of lawn mowers to suit different needs and budgets. In 2017, their lineup included both push and riding mowers, with a focus on durability, performance, and innovative features.
- Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1: A top-of-the-line zero-turn mower with a 54-inch deck and a powerful 23 HP engine.
- Cub Cadet XT1 LT: A compact, yet powerful riding mower with a 42-inch deck and a 22 HP engine.
- Cub Cadet RZT50: A mid-range zero-turn mower with a 50-inch deck and a 22 HP engine.
John Deere 2017 Models: An Overview
John Deere is known for its robust, reliable lawn mowers. In 2017, their lineup featured both push and riding mowers, with a focus on comfort, ease of use, and cutting performance.

- John Deere Z997E: A premium zero-turn mower with a 60-inch deck and a 24.5 HP engine.
- John Deere E160: A compact, yet powerful riding mower with a 48-inch deck and a 22 HP engine.
- John Deere S240: A mid-range, sit-down mower with a 48-inch deck and a 22 HP engine.
Cub Cadet vs John Deere 2017: Key Comparisons
To help you make an informed decision, let's compare the Cub Cadet and John Deere 2017 models across several key factors.
| Cub Cadet | John Deere | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power (HP) | 22-23 | 22.5-24.5 |
| Deck Size (inches) | 42-54 | 48-60 |
| Mowing Speed (mph) | Up to 6.0 | Up to 5.5 |
| Warranty (years) | 3-5 | 2-4 |
Engine Power
Both brands offer powerful engines, but John Deere edges out Cub Cadet with slightly more horsepower in their 2017 models.
Deck Size
Cub Cadet offers a wider range of deck sizes, with the Ultima ZT1 featuring a 54-inch deck. However, John Deere's largest deck size is 60 inches, found on the Z997E.

Mowing Speed
Cub Cadet's top speed is slightly faster than John Deere's, allowing for quicker mowing times on larger lawns.
Warranty
Cub Cadet offers longer warranties on their 2017 models, with coverage ranging from 3 to 5 years, compared to John Deere's 2 to 4-year warranties.
Ultimately, the choice between Cub Cadet and John Deere 2017 models depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Both brands offer high-quality lawn mowers that are built to last. Be sure to consider factors such as engine power, deck size, mowing speed, and warranty when making your decision.