Community Forums

Wright1 · 08-18-2017, 01:00 PM

We have been looking for our first Class A DP and learned that our budget is going to be one in the early 2000's but we have looked at ones 2005 and newer, and just seem to think the quality in these are not as good as the older ones?
Does anyone else feel that way?
We have been looking at Newmar, Tiffin, Beaver, Foretravel (which I don't think will be in our price range) Holiday Rambler.

19jcm79 · 08-18-2017, 01:22 PM

I bought a 2002 Newmar Kountry Star 38ft DP about a year ago. It was well maintained, and you could see it was taken care of. Have had absolutely no issues with this coach, other than a couple switches I can't figure out what they do. Would do it again in a minute. Got a lot more motorhome than I could have afforded if I had bought newer.

FatChance · 08-18-2017, 01:58 PM

We have a 2004 Newmar Mountain Aire 4016 400ISL and I would not argue with you.

DGBPokes · 08-18-2017, 02:49 PM

We bought a used .'07 Newmar K Star a couple of years ago. Very happy with the engine, tranny, chassis, been some issues with coach, but not a Newmar problem, more previous owner neglect. I specifically like the fact that this engine is a good one, no DEF, not all the EPA requirements a couple of years later. I wanted a Cummins 400 ISL, this one is a 350 ISL. I did a lot of research and am very pleased with the 350. It is really a 400 engine, just detuned to 350. For $700 they reprogram it and it is then a 400. So far, it is out pulling a lot of newer 400 and 450 later models when we are pulling mountains. So far, I've saved my $700.

Wimsey · 08-18-2017, 03:43 PM

We purchased our 2005 Dutch Star two years ago and absolutely love it. It has been a real trooper for us including a trip to Seattle from Michigan over Thanksgiving last year and it handled the mountains, the blizzards, below 0 nights without a hiccup. The interior finish is outstanding and we wouldn't trade it for a newer model.

RKins · 08-19-2017, 09:44 AM

I also think the older ones are built better but you have to update all electronics, which can be a challenge,

Gary RVRoamer · 08-20-2017, 10:43 AM

Among the better brands, I don't think there is much quality difference, but DPs have become so popular that RV makers are building bargain-basement models to attract buyers and skimping to keep the price down. Especially since the better brands are now north of $400k, with many in the $600k-$900k arena. In 2002-2004 you could get a top of the line brand for $280k (MSRP), but now that is an entry level DP. Still lavishly equipped with goodies, but no where near the quality of furnishings, cabinetry, flooring, etc.

So yes, you can get a much more solid coach if you stay a bit older. Chances are buying a couple newer years is actually a small step backwards.