I have used a 160 with thumb for many house demo's. I posted a couple photos of a 3 family (3 floors and walk up attic) on a very tight steep slope.I like the machine very much.
I have looked into purchase many times, however, it all comes down to billable machine hours over the course of the finance program, its tough to have iron sitting in the yard your making payments on. We have been renting a fair amount over the years and for us its working.
I have a great relationship with a National rental house, the rates are good, on time deliveries and a great response to on-site maint. or service. I would recommend renting until your sure the machine is working enough.
The company I rent from has a few used 160's for sale, they also offer a rent to purchase program where 80% of your rental goes towards your purchase of the particular machine on rental (not a bad deal if you have a good sized project going). I picked up a TB135 with a hydraulic thumb, enclosed cab...nice piece. I think your in CT so I can give you salesman's contact numbers, might not hurt to talk to him. We are in MA. Let me know
Good Luck

__________________
Tom Abbott
AMC Demolition, Inc.
www.amcdemo.com

A 120/ 160 is a good size for houses, it's easy to move in and out of neighborhoods. Go with a thumb so you can have double the use of your attachment.

I would go with the 160 do not forget removing the basement and foundation can be very tough on a smaller machine.

I would go with the 160 as well

No disrespect to anyone but buying a rental machine is nothing but nightmares from what i've heard.

It all depends on what rental company you purchase from. Some distributors have a high quality rental fleet that are maintained in excelenant condition and are repaired as needed and/or scheduled. Some rentals are for weekenders and more abuse from "O'ive operated my whole life (while signing the rental form)". As always let the buyer beware.