I rebuilt a Honda HR215 HXA masters series mower last year. Best mower of the fleet and I’m glad I saved it from an untimely demise (it was someone’s parts mower and going no where fast). I have this one and a HRX217 Harmony series. Both are hydrostatic models.
Between the GXV140 and GCV190, I prefer the GXV140. Plus direct drive on the HR215 is superior to belt drive, IMO. I can tell a difference in cruising speed when mowing with either mower. I saw a HRC216 for sale new locally last spring, but at ~$1200 USD it was steep price for me. However, it got me thinking about taking on the HR215 project; plus nostalgia kicked in too (I mowed with a HR214HXA when I was younger).
Both mowers will stay. However, my favorite has to be the HR215 because of the direct drive