2017 vs. 2018 Anthem

[2nsman]

Just wanted to get the opinion of some very knowledgeable Entegra owners. We are looking to upgrade from our current DP ( 2015 Dutch Star Model 4018 ) So far coach of choice is Anthem 42 RBQ. Found two 2017's that are new and we could purchase deeply discounted. Problem is one in Nevada, the other Albany, NY and I reside in SW Florida, but that is what motorhomin' is all about.
The 2018's have some upgrades, but actual $$$ diff is about $ 55K, and order lead is March to April.
Question is on a combo or depreciation, Entegra's 2019 changeover as early as what it is, the market as hot as ever, and as little ugrades in 2018 ( Hadley leveling, re-positioned and upgraded cameras, etc. ) what would you do??? knowing the Entegra product MUCH better than do I. I am a) Country Coach, Beaver, 2 A- Buses, now Dutch Star...but I love the Entegra product.

Sorry for the rambling!!! PS...both the 2017's are identical in options, and both exteriors and interiors are great...they are like 1, and 1A.



2nsman
2015 Dutch Star 4018 ( now )

[brobox]

JMO, but I can do a lot of upgrading for $55,000.

[2nsman]

I heard that.. But their is something to be said of down the road value of a 17 v 18....I was thinking like $ 25 - $ 30K difference in about 5 - 7 years, if I check 2012 v 2013 or 2013 v 2014 now....but as this will probably my last coached purchased (unless I spend more time at fountains near St. Augustine ) that should not be a major consideration...sorry, ramblin' again.


2nsman

[dave&ginny]

Both coaches are great. The 18 will have some stainless trim and the leveling system. No sure the 55k is worth it

[Matt D]

I’m with Dave and Chuck, save the money and add air leveling after the fact for a fraction of that difference.

Spend another $5K for the full compliment of Summit Stainless and you’re in fine shape, with over $40K left in your pocket.

The year model won’t erase a $55K difference, ever.

JMHO,

-Matt

[2nsman]

Thanks to all that have replied. When the Louisville show ends, I'll be going to Orlando and get them to sharpen the pencil a little and get myself and DW into a '17.

thanks again

[Matt D]

Here is a slightly more scientific breakdown of changes for 2018. Nothing too earth shattering except the Hadley system, which can be added later.

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f278/2018...es-333159.html

-Matt

[Bulabarry]

I seriously considered purchasing a 2017 Dutch Star 4018 prior to checking out the 2017 Anthem 42RBQ. I chose the Anthem which in my opinion is a far superior product. I also compared the ‘17 & ‘18 Anthem 42RBQ’s. I preferred the imbedded counter lighting on the ‘17s as well as greater firmness of the seating. The seating on the ‘18s seemed much softer and squishy which would be problematic with my wife’s back issues. We are very pleased with our decision and love our ‘17 Anthem 42RBQ. We purchased ours at Lazydays in Tampa.

[2nsman]

Thanks Matt... I had received some data from Entegra, but nothing like the level of detail from your post

Rich

2nsman

[2nsman]

Glad that you love your '17 RBQ. Good comments on seats, and I also prefer a little stiffer seat. Have you made any upgrades or adders to your coach since your purchase?
I would be lokking @ Tyron tire guards, Mobileye ( which I have on my DS and love it ), another AirForce One system, which would be coach # 4 with that system, and a fire suppression system that I had put on by an installer in Orlando, designed by Mac, the Fire Guy.

[Bulabarry]

I added the Safe-T-plus steering stabilizer mainly to provide additional handling in the event of a steer tire blowout. Had to reposition ABS modulator to provide clearance for stabilizer. Also added tire monitoring for all 8 tires plus tow car (TST 507RV & repeater), Air Force One braking system and Blue Ox Avail tow bar, Crestron app for iPad to sync with coach VegaTouch, had a cabinet maker make 2 additional shelves for pull out pantry and also make a cutting block to fit above induction cook top for added counter space. I also purchased a portable water softener to protect plumbing, faucets, fixtures, appliances, shower, etc from the negative effects of hard water (scaling, calcium deposits, etc). I went with the Travelsoft HD1200 for its better design.

[ditto]

I was told from Spartan that changes were made to the front suspension on my 18 . Not sure if any apply to 17s, we came from a 16. Kingpins have stainless steel components added and steering components changed too. If this is important to you call spartan for more specifics and conformation. If Terri is your salesperson in Orlando, she is the RVONE diesel Mgr, she may have the specifics as well.

[Saltydog44]

Interesting. We tried out the Mobileye and hated it - different strokes obviously. We had the system on our Enclave and I didn't know it. Two weeks ago someone apparently hit the on button and I almost wrecked as I was told I was over the line and I had no idea who was talking to me!

[dave&ginny]

I like the Anthem but..........

The new Aspires sure offer a lot for the money. Just saying.....