Help choosing commercial 48" walk-behind
 

I've got a large area to mow (3 acres) and am thinking about purchasing a
commercial walk-behind to do the job. I was hoping some out there might
have some suggestions/ideas/etc. on things to consider. Locally, the
choices are Cub Cadet (commercial) and Great Dane mowers. The one's $3200,
the other $4700. One has belt drives, the other hydraulic. Is the hydro
drive worth $1500? The Cub has a 3 year warranty, the GD 6 month. What
else should I be looking for to make sure I get an easy-to-use, reliable
machine? Comments are MUCH appreciated.
RS