New entry level coach vs older higher end

[Dadhammer123]

Any words of wisdom when comparing a new lower end DP vs a used higher end coach with some miles on the clock? Think new Ventana le vs used Mountain Aire at the same price point. Seems the older is built better and simpler but without that new feel.

Thanks.

[slowmachine]

Originally Posted by Dadhammer123

Any words of wisdom when comparing a new lower end DP vs a used higher end coach with some miles on the clock? Think new Ventana le vs used Mountain Aire at the same price point. Seems the older is built better and simpler but without that new feel.

Thanks.

I think that you really need to get something old enough that it has no Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to really be simpler. 2008 is not old enough to make the cut. 2006 would get you there, maybe 2007.

[jacwjames]

My 2002 Windsor is well built and I'd take it over any new coach hands down.

[Traxless]

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f103/new-...nd-203216.html

Hope this helps.

[FatChance]

Couldn't be happier with our 2004 Mountain Aire 4016.

[JillDS]

Originally Posted by Traxless

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f103/new-...nd-203216.html

Hope this helps.

Excellent information as we search for our dream DP.

[Drummer Mike]

Struggled with the same issue a few years ago. I spent a year pouring over data, reading forums, and listening to owners. My wife and I went to a few RV shows and found that the quality of many 'entry level' pushers just wasn't all that impressive. When a 2006 Newmar Mountain Aire 4301 caught our eye. It had 22000 miles on it. The cabinetry and attention to detail was superb compared to many new coaches we looked at. Sure, there are more fancy navigation and electronic gizmos out there now, but there's always mods that can be done. We've never looked back.

[Dan McMartin]

We've looked at the Ventana LE. Never seriously looked at the Mountain Aire (last name isn't Gates or Buffett ).

Check out the Ventana LE specs. I think the longer models have decent towing/GCWR specs but not the shorter ones. The MA can tow a house.

Then again, you're probably not interested in a sub 40 foot Ventana LE anyway if you're comparing it to a MA. Something to consider if you are.

[Dadhammer123]

Thanks for your input. I was leaning towards the older coaches as well. What's the biggest issue with the DPF? I k know the DEF I'm my pickup is a hassle.

[Dadhammer123]

I just read a thread that indicated the MA with the 450 ISM will not have the DPF. Cummins had enough engines in advance they didn't add them till 2010. Ever hear of that?

[db7512]

Go ahead and look at the Ventana over the LE also a little more but it shows. My 2 cents.