Oldie-But-Goodie Reel Mower for Reel Men/Women

Mower on the left is a modern re-make of the mower on the right: at least fifty years old, recently back in service after a roller-replacement (but not sharpened), and about as heavy as six bags of cement. Guess which one works best?

Hands down, the antique version. Is it the extra weight? I'm not a reel mower expert, as I mow exactly one postage-stamp lawn (have we had this discussion before...). So I'm thinking that the handle could be more ergonomic, but hey, if you can start on the downhill to get the thing going, this is a one-pass-and-yer-done reason to go back in time.