I looked at my snow blowers tonight. The old 1997 MTD is 26" and 8hp The newer 2007 Troybilt is also 26" but is 8 1/2 hp. Both engines are Tecumseh Snow Kings and look alike. The tires are much larger on the old one. The front auger is made different in the two blowers Was looking at the old one tonight and it still looks good.