Freightliner vs. Spartan?

[hellojohnny]

When the Freightliner vs. Spartan debate has come up on other forums most seem to say Spartan is better? Why did Newmar switch from Spartan to Freightliner on their 2012 Mountain Aire? Did they switch because the Freightliner chassis is less expensive to buy?

I do not have any experience to judge either other than I found our local Spartan dealer to be far superior when it came to dealing with both of them regarding service. One thing I have heard which I am hoping people with real experience could comment on is that Freightliner has a harder ride but handles better than Spartan?

Adam

[FlyingDiver]

I think there were two reasons for the switch. First, Freightliner had bought up all the pre-DEF engines available, so that for the (mostly 2011 models) transition period, they were the only source of chassis with the older engine. Second, Spartan was overloaded with military contracts, and wasn't willing to match FL on price.

In the future, I think Spartan may move some of their chassis manufacturing to Wakarusa, where the Utilimaster plant they purchased is. So they might have more capacity and be willing to compete with FL on price on the lower end chassis. But that's really all speculation.

I don't expect the issue to come up for us, since our next coach is likely to be another King Aire, and they're still on the K3 from Spartan.

joe

[hellojohnny]

Sorry, I didn't see the thread on the topic already running!

Adam

["007"]

Thats OK Adam I loose my place here also, we do cover some interesting subjects.
I get corrected also.

Here is the latest thread there were others as when Newmar decided to go with the Fl CHASSIS.
I think owners with the FL under their Newmars are happy with them and they do have the Comfort Drive.