I never operated the M series. But I have spoken with guys that did. I am telling you if you are new to the grader than the M series will be best for you. The old style is very tedious and it is a feel type with less viewing area unless you are tall or sit up high. If you sit low it will be hard for you.
If you sit up high you will bang your knees.
I am thinking about returning. If I do I want to operate the M series. Or I just might rent one to see if Cat has a good idea.
I like the old style Reason. If you can't find a M series and the guys that operate the M series will be less production because the old style grader. The old style is for production the new style M series is for the new guys.
I have faith I can operate either one with production.
My intake. If you learn on the new M series than stay with Cat.
If you learn on the old style stay with Deere, Volvo, Komatsu
Now, Komatsu has a problem grading road stones. The stones seems to break the hoses a lot. So becareful back dragging. Keep a dozer with you