Community Forums

glester99 · 10-08-2016, 11:24 PM

I am trying to decide which model of Newmar to order. I will be placing an order this winter with a June delivery - if all goes well. Floor plan 4369 - Ventana or Dutch Star - I have read several threads - but still not sure! Anyone that has made the decision between the two I would love to here from you and why you made your choice & how it turned out - especially if you have done so in the last year or so. 2015, 2016, 2017 model years. Thanks in advance! Also thoughts from anyone in the process of making the same decision now.

vsheetz · 10-08-2016, 11:35 PM

If the money adder for the DS is there, do it. Its worth it. IMHO. However, if the money difference is a big deal the vantana will do nicely as well.

BBelanger · 10-09-2016, 05:25 AM

The Dutch star had the independent front suspension and there are a few options I think available not available on the ventana. If you add up the standard Dutch star items and add them to the ventana, there isn't that much difference. Having said that, if money is the issue, then you see you can buy the Vantana for less. I also think the Dutch star will hold it's value better for resale.

don8ch · 10-09-2016, 08:01 PM

We had to make the same decision in 2014 but it was Dutch Star 4018 vs Ventana 4037 (same layouts). Both were on the lot at different dealers. We did fairly long test drives on both units including some pretty rough side roads. I couldn't discern the difference between the independent front suspension on the DS and the straight axle on the VTDP. I also couldn't see any more pep in the 450 HP DS than the 400 in the Ventana. The side rad on the DS cuts into storage space but does certainly offer easier access to the engine compartment.
We would certainly be happier with automatic slide arms and, in the current year's models, the carpet-free slide-outs.
We are very happy with the Ventana and happily spending the $30k we saved. (Units were not identically equipped, option-wise)
Don

wagonmaster2 · 10-09-2016, 08:38 PM

We went with the 2015 Dutch Star, mainly for the side radiator and interior decor. Kind of like, Ford or Lincoln. If the money is no object go for the Lincoln. And are you going to be spending a couple weeks a year in it or several months.
I sort of agree on the IFS. My past 3 coaches (last one was also a diesel) had a solid front axle and I sure can't tell the difference in ride between the two front axle systems. Course I also can't see the difference between the way air bag suspensions and spring suspensions hit the bridge seams. They both rattle our teeth and shake everything in the coach. I know most diesel owners prefer the air bags.