MowerFacts
Home › Compare

Compare Mowers

Key differences: ZTX4 54 has a wider cutting deck, a larger engine, a higher top speed and a larger fuel tank. Z1 42 has a narrower cutting deck, a smaller engine, a lower top speed and a smaller fuel tank. Objective comparison of stated specs — not a recommendation.
How to read the labels
  • larger / more / wider / faster — this mower has the higher value for that spec.
  • smaller / less / lighter / slower — this mower has the lower value.
  • Labels are directional only; whether more is desirable depends on your needs.
  • Note: a lower deck-gauge number means thicker steel, so for Deck Gauge a smaller number is the more durable deck.
Spec ZTX4 54
Cub Cadet · Zero-Turn
Z1 42
Cub Cadet · Zero-Turn
Engine
Power Source gas gas
Displacement 45.6 ci (747 cc) larger 33.4 ci (547 cc) smaller
Engine Power 26 hp
Engine Make Kohler® Cub Cadet®
Start Type Ignition Key Ignition Key
Cylinders 2 1
Engine Model Pro 7000 series IntelliPOWER®
Deck
Cutting Width 54 in (1372 mm) wider 42 in (1067 mm) narrower
Blades 3 more blades 2 fewer blades
Min Cut Height 1 in (25 mm) 1 in (25 mm)
Max Cut Height 4.8 in (121 mm) taller cut 4.5 in (114 mm) lower cut
Deck Material 10-gauge steel with 2-gauge reinforcement 13-gauge steel
Cut Positions 17 15
Deck Construction Reinforced Fabricated Stamped
Deck Gauge 10 13
Drive
Transmission Hydro-Gear ZT 3100 Hydro-Gear EZT 2200
Ground Speed 8 mph faster 7 mph slower
Drive System Hydrostatic Hydrostatic
Reverse Speed 3.5 mph 3.5 mph
Dimensions
Fuel Capacity 5.5 gal (20.8 L) more fuel 3.5 gal (13.2 L) less fuel
General
Warranty 4 yr longer warranty 3 yr shorter warranty

Independent reference database. Specs compiled from manufacturer sources and normalized for comparison; verify with the manufacturer or dealer before purchase.