Our verdict
Mountfield's answer to the Honda HRX 476 at half the price. Specs look identical on paper — variable-speed SP, rear roller, 48cm cut. The engine is the gap. If you cycle mowers every 7 years, this works out cheaper than a Honda. Beyond 10 years, the Honda wins.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Variable-speed V-Drive transmission
- 48cm cut + 70L box — generous for the price
- Rear roller for stripes
- Stiga ST160 engine handles long grass
Cons
- V-Drive cable is a known wear part
- Heavier than the standard SP46
- Stiga ST160 not as durable as a Honda GCV
Full specs
| Type | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Cut width | 48 cm |
| Engine / Power | Stiga ST160 OHV 166cc |
| Weight | 34 kg |
| Deck | Steel |
| Self-propelled | Yes |
| Rear roller | Yes (stripes) |
| Mulching | Yes |
| Cutting heights | 6 positions |
| Bag capacity | 70 L |
| Suited to lawn | Large |
| Noise level | 95 dB |
Buying second-hand
£200–340 used. V-Drive cable slipping under load is the #1 fault — test it on an incline. Roller bearings should turn freely. Honda owners shopping used would walk past this; Mountfield converts will love it. £220 with full service history is the sweet spot.
Where to buy the Mountfield SP485 HW V
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Repair-cost reference
UK 2026 ballpark prices for the parts you're most likely to need on this mower. OEM is dealer-genuine; aftermarket is what you'll find on eBay or generic small-engine suppliers. Use these to sense-check any quote and to negotiate on used buys.
| Part / job | OEM | Aftermarket |
|---|---|---|
|
Replacement 48cm blade
Annual sharpening is free; replace when bent or cracked.
|
£24–£32 | £8–£12 |
|
Foam air filter
|
£10 | £3 |
|
Spark plug
|
£8 | £3 |
|
Carburettor service kit
|
£25 | £10 |
|
Drive cable replacement
Stretches at 5–8 years. 30-minute DIY fit.
|
£18–£28 | £8 |
|
Rear-roller bearing kit (pair)
Replace if you hear clicking; affects stripe quality.
|
£24 | £12 |
Fair-offer calculator
Tell us about a specific used listing for the Mountfield SP485 HW V you're looking at. We'll compute a fair offer range from our used-market data and the condition signals you provide.
Calculations are guidance, not gospel. Used-market prices vary by region (Scotland is typically 10–15% cheaper than the South-East), season (October cheapest, March most expensive), and seller motivation.
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