I have just recalled one mower that could fit the bill, 1978 - 1980 Power-Plus Self Propelled (WV 173 A8) or the 1980 - 1981 Power-Plus Self propelled (WV 155 A0)

These used the small plastic lever control, had no catcher hooks, and did not have the sprung strap lifter.

To identify (the original dress cowl was similar on these to the sports) you will not find the 3 lugs fitted into the front of the hi-arch chute for dress cowl mounting (Nor the raised lip running behind them)

[Linked Image]

Also, you can identify the Power Plus Engine in 2 ways (this was the High Compression version of the Series 70 Engine)

1) The exhaust lip of the muffler will have a hole punched in it to identity.

[Linked Image]

2) The Cylinder head will have a different interior shape.

[Linked Image]

Does this seem like the mower you have?

Sadly the best pic of the mower itself I can find is this:

[Linked Image]

Cheers
Ty

____________________________
Please do not PM me asking for support. Please post your questions in the appropriate forums, as the replies it may receive may help all members, not just the individual member.