I don't think you could go wrong with any Cub Cadet.. They are all nice well built machines...
I like the 70/100 series... super easy to work on and still utter rugged simplicity and good lines!
But i'm also with you on the early wide frame series!
Just find one and go with it.. you can't go wrong! 
__________________
Jay
40 years of Using and playing with IH Cub Cadets!
Proud owner of the following:
Cub Farmall, Super A Farmall, Original, (2)70's, 72, 100, 102, 123, 105, 125, 127, 108, 128, 1450, (3)782's, Yellow 982, 1782, "Sam's" 2182, M Farmall and a #7 trailer
|