We've got a Honda self propelled jobbie here,had to weld the deck a few times in recent years but it never needs more than a couple of pulls to start even after a winter lay up,oh and it's about 20years old now 
I've got a cheap B&Q self-propelled with a 4.5hp Briggs and Stratton engine, that is still going strong after 18-19 years. Like your Honda tin worm is beginning to get the better of the blade and drive belt enclosures, so I think I'm going to have to get some tin plate and get my welder out in the near future. I've no complaints with almost 20 years of use for £200 and a couple of gallons of unleaded per cutting season and the occasional oil change, new plug and air filter. Normally starts first pull of the chord and will go through the thickest of grass, like after 3 weeks holiday, or a wet period when it has been impossible to cut.