The Husqvarna is a good machine and that sounds like a great price. It is not a small machine (larger harp space) and wouldn't be one that I would want to cart to classes. It will take a little getting used to as it does not have a lever to lower the pressure foot which seems "weird" at first. I'm not familiar with your old machine so can't compare the two. If money is tight, it will have to be all about your priorities.