Higher end diesel, 2004-2006ish

[RVer402]

We are currently looking for our first RV - want to pretty much live in it for at least a year or two. Since full-timing, we want something comfortable but we are limited to around 100,000 so we need to stay with older models. We love the floor plan in the Winnebago Vectra and Itasca Horizon but are having some difficulty finding the one and are thinking we need to broaden our range. Any suggestions on models that would be somewhat equal in quality - comfort-wise and build-wise? We have been greatly disappointed twice now on rigs that we really liked - one the seller owed more than the value and the other the seller changed his mind and backed out on us. So we start again... We have spent so much time looking at Vectras and Horizons that I don't know where to begin as far as looking for similar quality. As to the floorplan - not many out there with a similar floorplan - I already know that, but I'm wondering which brands and models would be in a similar line of quality.

Thanks so much for any and all thoughts and suggestions!

[KIX]

AS you can see in the sig below I am partial. However, an '03 or '04 or even a super nice '02 Winnebago Ultimate Advantage or Freedom would be in the price you quote. Look ofr a 40' on a Spartan chassis with a Cummins engine.

[JFXG]

402..... Some coaches are made well enough, and with good enough materials , to withstand 24/7/365 usage. Many are not, and will start to wear and fail fairly quickly under the strain.

Go to www.rv.org and check out the RV Consumer Group. They rate all types of RVs on many factors, including intended usage. Their help was invaluable when we were shopping.

[rehtaf]

Sent you a PM

[becks]

Why not look at used units from high end builders up a bit from Winnebago.

[DieselTech39]

Glad you're aboard. Check the classifieds here, eBay, RVTrader, RVT.com, do a search using oodle.com for the price range you are looking for and see what's available. Newmar, American Coach are good values in most cases. JMHO Best of luck in your search. Enjoy your adventures and be safe.

[jeryan59]

Originally Posted by RVer402

We are currently looking for our first RV - want to pretty much live in it for at least a year or two. Since full-timing, we want something comfortable but we are limited to around 100,000 so we need to stay with older models. We love the floor plan in the Winnebago Vectra and Itasca Horizon but are having some difficulty finding the one and are thinking we need to broaden our range. Any suggestions on models that would be somewhat equal in quality - comfort-wise and build-wise? We have been greatly disappointed twice now on rigs that we really liked - one the seller owed more than the value and the other the seller changed his mind and backed out on us. So we start again... We have spent so much time looking at Vectras and Horizons that I don't know where to begin as far as looking for similar quality. As to the floorplan - not many out there with a similar floorplan - I already know that, but I'm wondering which brands and models would be in a similar line of quality.

Thanks so much for any and all thoughts and suggestions!

There are many options in the $100,000 range. I would definitely consider a Newmar, Monaco, American, Country Coach or a higher end model on the many other Coach Mfg's.

I am partial to American due to their excellent customer service (I have bought 2 used American's and I get unbelievable customer support), but Newmar, Country Coach and Monaco all have great customer service from what I have seen on this forum. I am not saying other mfg don't have great customer service, I just don't know many who have owned the others or I haven't looked at them personally.

Here is some idea of one dealer search for used $90k-$110k asking price.

RVs for sale, New & Used motorhomes, New RVs, Texas RV Dealer

[jeryan59]

Another site to provide data for you.

Diesel Motorhomes for Sale - PPL Motor Homes

[Gary RVRoamer]

My 2004 American Tradition would sell for under $100k and it's well upscale from the models you mentioned. Some additional candidates would be similar models from Country Coach, Newmars, Monaco Dynasty and Executive, maybe an Allegro Bus, and Winnie's Ultimate Advantage & Ultimate Freedom models. Widen your horizons a bit!

[Peralko]

Since you are looking at similar quality to Horizons and Vectras, I will recommend you do not look at Country Coaches, or you will not look at Horizons and Vectras the same way.

[Mr_D]

Originally Posted by Peralko

Since you are looking at similar quality to Horizons and Vectras, I will recommend you do not look at Country Coaches, or you will not look at Horizons and Vectras the same way.

Yep, don't look at Newmar's either for the same reason.

[RVer402]

This is an awesome forum! I appreciate all the input so very much. I think we definitely need to broaden our horizons. Additional input appreciated as well. Thanks to all who are willing to share.

[Bumps]

RVer402: We were exactly where you are. Fell for the floorplan in the Vectra pretty hard. Just weren't as happy with anything else we looked at. There is a reason that the 2005 - 2006 (and even 2007 - 2008) Vectras are harder to come by: they are in demand. Just keep looking -- there is no harm in that. But when you find the one you REALLY like, be ready to move pretty quickly with your checkbook. When we were doing the test drive on the one we eventually bought, there was another couple behind us ready to buy it sight unseen. And another couple who had an appointment to see the coach that same afternoon. Whatever you do, make sure the search for the right coach is part of your adventure! Enjoy! \ken

[GregOk80]

Why is it that no one wanted to speak about the Fleetwood Revolution? 2002 to 2005 models would be in your price range. Solid wood cabinets, ceramic tile doors and much more. Solid Fiberglass roof, Freight Liner and Spartin chassis. I say this because the 2002 Revolution was our first and last Class A.