Our Quick Guide to Petrol Lawnmowers

 

To tackle a lawn with confidence, few tools rival the performance and reliability of a petrol lawnmower. Designed to handle everything from small suburban plots to expansive country gardens, these powerful machines continue to be the first choice for people who value freedom of movement, cutting strength, and long-lasting durability.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your kit or a professional groundskeeper in need of dependable machinery, this guide explains the key things you need to know about petrol lawnmowers—how they work, the different types available, and how to choose the best model for your garden. From compact petrol push mowers to feature-rich self-propelled machines, there’s a petrol mower to suit every mowing style and outdoor space.

What Is a Petrol Lawnmower?

A petrol lawnmower is powered by an internal combustion engine that runs on unleaded fuel. Unlike electric or cordless models, petrol grass mowers don’t rely on cables or battery life—giving you unrestricted access to every corner of your lawn. The result is a more powerful, consistent mowing experience, especially when dealing with longer, thicker grass or uneven terrain.

These machines are particularly well known for their strength, versatility, and suitability for medium to large domestic gardens. Petrol-powered mowers are also popular with professionals who need robust, all-day performance without pause for recharging.

How Petrol Mowers Work

At the core of every petrol mower is a small but powerful engine. This engine draws in fuel from the tank and mixes it with air. The mixture is compressed and ignited by the spark plug, producing a force that drives the piston—and in turn, spins the cutting blade.

This mechanical process offers greater torque than electric alternatives, which is why petrol mowers can cut through tough grass more efficiently. Petrol lawnmowers that are self propelled use this engine power to drive the wheels as well, reducing manual effort when mowing larger or sloped lawns.

The Main Types of Petrol Lawnmower

Petrol Push Mowers

A petrol push mower is manually driven—meaning you do the pushing while the engine powers the blades. These are great for flat, smaller lawns and offer a lightweight, affordable solution for everyday mowing.

Self-Propelled Petrol Mowers

A self propelled petrol lawnmower uses the engine’s power to move itself forward. You simply guide it across the lawn. This makes mowing easier on the arms and legs, particularly useful for large gardens, banks, or uneven ground. Many of the best self-propelled grass mower petrol machines offer variable speed control for even greater convenience.

Petrol Hover Mowers

A petrol hover mower floats on a cushion of air, offering superior manoeuvrability on awkward areas of land. These are often used by landscaping professionals to mow lawns on verges and banks.

Petrol Lawnmowers with Rollers

If you love a striped finish, a petrol lawnmower with roller will give you the clean, formal appearance of a traditional British lawn. They are ideal for use on fine grass areas or formal gardens where presentation is a priority.

Key Features to Consider

Cutting Width

The wider the cutting deck, the fewer passes you’ll need to make. For small lawns, a 42 cm or under deck will suffice. For larger areas, a wider cutting width—above 50 cm—is far more efficient.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Look for a mower with a central lever that allows you to change the cutting height quickly. Many models offer between five and seven settings, giving you more control over the finish.

Starting Mechanism

Most traditional models come with a recoil start, but some now feature electric or push-button starting for greater ease of use. This can be a worthwhile upgrade if you’re after comfort and simplicity.

Grass Handling Options

Most petrol lawnmowers collect clippings in a rear box. Some offer mulching, side-discharge, or even multi-mode operation. If you want a tidy finish or minimal clean-up, choose a model with a grass box—or mulching capability, if that’s your preferred approach.

Build Quality

Deck construction matters—polypropylene and aluminium are lightweight and rust-proof, while steel is stronger but adds extra weight. Choose a machine that balances strength and manageability.

Weight and Manoeuvrability

Petrol mowers are typically heavier than electric or cordless models. If weight is a concern, look for a small petrol mower or a self-propelled model to lighten the load.

Speed Control

While basic models offer a single speed, more advanced petrol mower self propelled machines include variable speed options—allowing you to match the pace to the conditions and your preferred walking pace.

Matching Engine Size to Lawn Size

Engine capacity plays a big role in mower performance. The higher the cc and horsepower, the better equipped the lawnmower will be to handle larger areas of land.

The Advantages of a Petrol Mower

• Exceptional Power – Perfect for long grass and thick growth
• Greater Coverage – Ideal for medium to large lawns with no need for power outlets
• Wider Cutting Decks – Cover more ground in less time
• Flexible Features – Many models include mulching, variable speed control, and multiple cutting heights
• Longevity – With regular care, a petrol mower can last for decades

Things to Keep in Mind

• Maintenance – Petrol engines need oil changes, air filter replacements, and occasional spark plug checks
• Noise Levels – Typically louder than battery or electric models
• Weight – Heavier models can be harder to transport and store
• Fuel Storage – You’ll need to keep petrol on hand and store it safely

Despite these considerations, the best petrol lawnmower models are designed with usability in mind. From ergonomic handles to folding storage frames, modern petrol mowers are more user friendly than ever before.

Choosing the Best Petrol Lawn Mower for You

If you’re focused on value, a cheap petrol lawnmower can still offer impressive performance, especially from trusted brands like Cobra and Mountfield. If you want to showcase those classic stripes look for a premium petrol mower with roller. And to tackle particularly demanding mowing jobs or for frequent use, a lawnmower petrol self propelled model is the obvious choice.

From compact petrol push mowers to robust, feature-packed machines, there’s a wide range of options available to suit your own needs. Consider the size of your lawn, your physical comfort, and your preferences around finish and features. This will help determine the best petrol lawn mower for you.

Why Choose Ron Smith?

Here, at Ron Smith, we understand petrol lawnmowers inside out. With decades of experience and a commitment to customer support that’s second to none, we’re proud to offer Britain’s best selection of petrol grass mowers for sale.

With small petrol lawnmowers for compact gardens to powerful, self propelled petrol lawnmower models for larger estates, we’ve got every base covered. What’s more, our expert team is always on hand to help you choose the best petrol mower for your lawn, with honest advice, fast delivery, and ongoing aftercare to keep your machine in top condition.