The STIGA Tornado 398 M is a robust ride‑on lawn tractor designed for serious lawn owners who need to maintain large areas with ease, comfort and professional‑grade results. Built with a wide 98 cm cutting deck and powered by a reliable petrol engine, this machine combines high capacity, strong performance and operator convenience in a modern package.
At its core lies a STIGA‑branded engine (414 cc displacement in the ST 400 version) delivering approximately 7.1 kW (at 2,800 rpm) of net power, making it more than capable of handling large lawns up to around 4,500 m² or more under ideal conditions. Adjusting for real‑world lawn conditions and usage, this capability offers a major step up from standard domestic mowers. The petrol fuel tank is sized at 6 litres to support longer mowing sessions between refuels.
The 98 cm cutting deck features two rotating blades and is capable of side discharge mowing for efficient cutting and removal of clippings. A mulching plug is included in the package, providing the option to finely chop grass clippings and return nutrients to the lawn, giving a healthier finish and reducing the need for disposal of clippings. The cutting height is adjustable via a lever beside the operator’s seat, across 7 positions from 25 mm up to 80 mm, enabling you to tailor the finish to your preferred lawn height and conditions.
Drive is provided by a mechanical transmission (5 forward gears + 1 reverse) and rear‑wheel drive, giving strong traction and control over varied terrain. With a compact turning radius (~0.70 m in minimum uncut radius) and anti‑scalp wheels, the Tornado 398 M offers manoeuvrability around flower beds, trees, edging and obstacles that larger machines struggle with. The operator sits on a comfortable high‑back STIGA seat with adjustable features and uses a STIGA “new comfort” steering wheel, making longer mowing sessions less tiring.
Additional features include a front bumper for protection, a washing link for deck cleaning, a cup holder and storage compartment for convenience, headlights for work in low light, and a trailer hitch kit included for optional accessories or garden trailers. Safety features such as a safety switch under the seat ensure that the blades and engine stop if the operator leaves the seat.
From a maintenance and durability perspective, the steel cutting deck and heavy‑duty build allow this tractor to handle frequent use, larger properties and tougher conditions. Whether you’re mowing a large suburban lot, estate grounds or a park‑like garden, the Tornado 398 M offers the capacity, durability and comfort to make the job quicker, easier and more enjoyable.
Key Features
414 cc ST 400 petrol engine (approx. 7.1 kW net) — built for high‑capacity mowing.
98 cm (≈39″) cutting width with two blades — covers large areas in fewer passes.
Side‑discharge mowing with included mulching plug — gives flexibility in how clippings are handled.
7‑position cutting height adjustment (25–80 mm) via lever near the seat — precise lawn control.
Mechanical gearbox with 5 forward + 1 reverse gears — strong drive and good speed control.
Rear‑wheel drive, large pneumatic tyres (front 15×6.00‑6, rear 18×8.50‑8) — good traction, stability and smooth ride.
Compact minimum turning radius (~0.7 m) — ideal for maneuvering around obstacles.
Comfortable high‑back seat, ergonomic steering wheel, front bumper and deluxe finishes — built for operator comfort.
Large fuel tank (6 litres) — longer continuous mowing without refuelling.
Includes trailer hitch kit, cup holder, storage compartment, washing link — added convenience.
Safety switch under the seat, anti‑scalp wheels — safer operation and better lawn protection.
Benefits
Large‑area efficiency: The wide deck and powerful engine mean you can cover large lawns in far less time than with a standard ride‑on.
Flexibility of finish: With adjustable height and mulching option you can achieve a crisp, short lawn or a thicker, more natural look depending on season and preference.
Reduced fatigue: Comfortable seat, ergonomic controls and smooth drive mean you can mow longer without strain.
Maneuverability: Ideal for properties with landscaping, obstacles or complex layouts thanks to its tight turning radius and anti‑scalp wheels.
Durability: Heavy‑duty build and quality components mean the tractor is designed for long‑term use and frequent mowing tasks.
Convenience: Features such as washing link for deck cleaning, storage space, cup holder and hitch for accessories enhance the user experience.
Professional look: The ability to switch between mulching and side discharge gives a premium finish to your lawn and offers eco‑friendly benefits by returning nutrients.
Safe operation: Built‑in safety features and strong build give you peace of mind while using a high‑capacity machine.
Technical Data (Approximate)
Engine Displacement: 414 cc (ST 400)
Engine Net Power: ~7.1 kW at 2,800 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 6 litres
Cutting Width: 98 cm
Cutting Height Range: 25–80 mm (7 positions)
Drive: Rear‑wheel drive, mechanical transmission, 5 forward + 1 reverse
Minimum Turning Radius: ~0.70 m
Wheel Sizes: Front 15×6.00‑6, Rear 18×8.50‑8
Recommended Mowing Area: Up to ~4,500‑5,000 m² (depending on conditions)
Weight: ~165–205 kg depending on specification/region
Dimensions: Approx. 1,726 mm length × 1,200 mm width × 1,100 mm height
Considerations
While this machine is very capable, a large size and weight mean you’ll need space for storage and comfortable access around the lawn area.
Regular maintenance (engine oil, filters, deck cleaning, belts) will still be required, particularly if used frequently on large areas.
The side‑discharge and mulching options mean clippings must be managed appropriately; if you prefer collection sort of clippings you may need to check availability of a suitable catcher accessory.
Though the turning radius is tight for its class, tight garden layouts or very narrow gates might still challenge a 98 cm deck machine—always ensure the machine can navigate your lawn and access paths.
Fuel‑powered means storage of petrol, and operation may produce more noise and emissions compared to battery/electric alternatives—important for residential neighbourhoods with noise or emission considerations.
