Community Forums

oldcoon · 03-03-2021, 05:38 PM

Looking at a new coach. It's basically 46K difference between the 2 coaches, which I can swing. I don't necessarily need to be at the top of the hill first. All opinions, pros/cons, about the 2, will be appreciated.

outlawten5 · 03-03-2021, 06:54 PM

London Air will get you to the top of the hill quicker

96kpmjmm · 03-03-2021, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldcoon

Looking at a new coach. It's basically 46K difference between the 2 coaches, which I can swing. I don't necessarily need to be at the top of the hill first. All opinions, pros/cons, about the 2, will be appreciated.

We went with the London Aire. Larger engine, We were able to get the Essex window that is over the bed in our London Aire and the HWH steps are very nice. No matter which one you go with you will be happy. We ordered thru Mid Way in Grand Rapids MI. Good Luck

GWBGE · 03-03-2021, 07:03 PM

There is no such thing as too much power.

tom chelbana · 03-03-2021, 08:50 PM

Even more important is the chassis with either coach. Starting in 2020 both coaches would have Spartan chassis which if you check around there has been numerous major problems with FL chassis (fan drive weld braking). Almost all 15 LA and MA are on FL chassis. Still in 16, 17 and 18 many FL chassis out there because of 5K up charge from Newmar for Spartan. Starting in 2016 Star chassis came out for all high line coaches and DS which is a big improvement. In 16 on LA are on up the HWH 3 step along with full wall power by HWH. Suggest the LA from 2016 up on the Spartan chassis because the 605 is something else. We had a Essex with a 500 ISM which was a great coach but the power and fuel economy of the X-15 is great. Both coaches are excellent choices and you will be a Happy Camper.
Newmar Man

sramer · 03-04-2021, 12:03 AM

I compared the MA to the LA also and went with the London Aire. The 605hp engine is considered Cummins Million Miler engine which was a selling point. The HWH steps are nice and the Valid Active Air Suspension was a must have over the Mountain Aire.

LBJ · 03-08-2021, 04:40 PM

I was in the same position two years ago - went with the 2020 MA for two reasons.

DW liked the ceiling design and overall interior trim better on MA (LA has/had that large dental wood trim that we didn't care for).

My reason was found buried in the back of the specs...primarily due to the light weight of the X12... the CCC of the MA is much higher (at least for the 2020's) compared to the LA. I think it was 1/2 ton or more - I don't remember exactly but it was significant.

The lighter weight gives me mid/low eights on flat highway and after 10K under her belt a solid 7.6 average MPG crisscrossing the country.

I am retired and in no rush to get anywhere, nevermind the top of a hill. That said, I have yet to meet a hill (going up or down) that she didn't handle like a champ.

IMHO, You can't go wrong with either choice.

RVRon · 03-08-2021, 05:28 PM

My choice was a London Aire.
We came out of a Prevost with a DDEC Series 60 V and the LA will eat any Prevost’s lunch in a hill. Too much fun.
But seriously, you spend a whole lot more time living rather than driving your coach. Floor plan, live-ability, decor etc. are probably equally important.
Both MA and LA are fine coaches. You cannot go wrong.
But....like was said.....you can’t have too much power!! [emoji41]

clawsonbob · 03-08-2021, 05:50 PM

As they are both great coaches (imho), I think you just need to be candid with yourselves about priorities & features you need or want. If you decide the 600hp motor and Spartan chassis is what you want, AND you want to save some real dough, here’s an idea. I have a local acquaintance selling his 9k mile 2017 Essex, stored indoors, loaded, and in great colors. I’d guess you can possibly save a few hundred grand. Msg me if you want more details before I buy it 😊

2cyber71 · 03-08-2021, 05:53 PM

London Aire

GWBGE · 03-08-2021, 06:07 PM

It's funny you mention the trim. Our tastes also lean toward simple but classic. The moldings on the LA are more ornate, but at night, just turn on the accent lighting and it is warm and comfortable. They really nailed it.

The colors in ours (beechwood) are neutral with a little blue, which are the colors in our permanent house. DW is going to change out all the bedding and pillows to add more color.

As for me. The K3 chassis and x15 Cummins are brilliant. At this level, gas mileage is not really an issue, but meets expectations.

Good luck.