Community Forums

GypsyLady · 08-31-2010, 04:35 PM

After much research, we have finally decided to purchase a 2003 Country Coach Intrigue Suite Sensation. Trading-in the 2002 Winnebago Chieftain was hard to do. I will miss that coach, alot of memories. We decided not to go with another Winnebago, it seemed the newer year models did not have the quality as the older ones.

Right now, just hoping we made the right choice going with the Country Coach and not the Alpine?

AFChap · 08-31-2010, 04:58 PM

Well, if it is any comfort, if we could bear to part with our Winnebago I would MUCH rather have a Country Coach than an Alpine!!!

Old Scout · 08-31-2010, 05:11 PM

Gosh--could you elaborate on your preference for CC?

AFChap · 08-31-2010, 06:19 PM

Everything I learned about CC in my research before buying our coach ...and from inspecting coaches at RV shows over the years ...and from owner comments/complaints ...indicates CC are very good quality built coaches, among the best in the industry. I don't know nearly as much about Alpine, but what little I do know doesn't indicate they are on the same level as CC ...just my perception based on my own knowledge and experience, which is all I can go on!!

Good man · 08-31-2010, 06:50 PM

GypsyLady,
As the owner of a vintage Country Coach, I can honestly say that my 1988 is a very fine example of how well things CAN be made. The fit, finish and structural integrity of the coach is a constant source of amazement.
I do all my routine maintenance and mechanical repairs. The only major thing that I have encountered was to replace the turbocharger... 'was able to do it myself with a re-manufactured turbo for $500. Nothing on the coach itself has failed in 5 years of ownership.
Many coach owners are "loyal" to their brand for any number of reasons. That is a good thing and I am happy to know other owners love their coaches. I am loyal to my CC because my loyalty and trust have been thoroughly earned.
Even the fact that CC as a corporation has ceased to exist does not detract from my faith in the coach I call my "Grande Dame"... parts for all levels of MHs are virtually interchangeable.
All the best to you,
Jim

Old Scout · 08-31-2010, 07:08 PM

From everything I have heard, CCs are a great coach. However, if you havent driven an Alpine yet, I suggest that you do so. If possible, find a nice curved road and compare the two coaches--if you still think fit and finish is the most important charactristic, then I am sure you will be very happy with either coach. But for the money, nothing rides or handles like an Alpine--personal bias withstanding [smile].

GypsyLady · 08-31-2010, 08:30 PM

Thank you everyone for your replies. As I stated before, I did not want to get away from Winnebago because customer service along with all manuals online are great! However, I noticed that the newer models seem to lack the quality the older models were built with.

So therefore, moving to another brand motorhome. Settled on the Country Coach but we will test drive both the Alpine and the CC as the dealer has both on the lot.

Thanks again!

Good man · 08-31-2010, 08:56 PM

GypsyLady,
I absolutely agree with Old Scout's sage observation... Drive both of them... spend the night in both of them... experience everything you can. It appears that through doing your "due diligence" you have arrived at a place where either (or any) choice you make will be a good choice.
Best of luck to you!
Jim

Chuck 1935 · 08-31-2010, 09:13 PM

Question, why would you look at a coach from a defunct manufacturer over one that is still and will probabley remain in business as well as one that can give you top tech support.
This is not a commentary but I am curious as to the motivation other than price.

Jeff and Cheryl · 08-31-2010, 09:45 PM

Chuck 1935,
Both CC and WRV are defunct, liquidated, gone, kaput.

Chuck 1935 · 08-31-2010, 10:36 PM

If WRV is Winnebago< I just spoke with them yesterday !

Jeff and Cheryl · 08-31-2010, 10:56 PM

Chuck,
WRV= Western Recreational Vehicles, maker of the Alpine Coach.

Chuck 1935 · 08-31-2010, 11:49 PM

I was referring to the fact that she didn't think the Winnebagos were up to par. Comparing Winnebago to two defunct companies was interesting.

bachler · 09-01-2010, 07:52 AM

Like most of the posters , We have owned several MH. In fact 7 of them Rented, and bought one and rented it out. our Last 3 have been Winnebagos, Chiefton, vectra And now an Ultimate. It was stated in prior posts Compairing Winnebago To/with companys that have gone bankrupt; HELLO:: WE had a coach break down on us in Montana; They told us we had to go to the Factory to get it repaired. WELL THATS NICE:: The bottom line is ; Winnebago Is the GMC, of motorhomes, and any place you see a RV. sign they can work on them. If you own another brand They generley tell you were to go. I may have been missfortinet But thats the facts. Also that reminds me of a story. About our memory; Two old men sitting on a park bench talking; A new car went By , one said to the other, They sure don't build them like they used to. The other thought for a minute and said,, THANK GOD FOR THAT .. Life is so good Sometimes; Our memory is what we want it to be......