Motorhomes - know your classes
August 25th, 2009 by Ben Dolan
Motorhomes come in 3 different classes and multiple body styles so the first question would-be motorhome owners should ask themselves when considering purchasing a motorhome is their own requirements. Consider what a motorhome will have to do to accommodate your personal needs and interests and once these elements have been decided the following article will help highlight the most suitable type of motorhome for you.
Class C motorhomes range from 10,000 – 15,000 pounds and generally measure just under 6-13m in length and can come in a luxurious or more economical model depending on budget requirements. They are normally built upon a cutaway chassis and can have all the conveniences of home including kitchen, bathroom, dining area, heating, air conditioning and even entertainment features.
Depending on floor plan, dinettes aren’t always present, but where they are they can be made into a double bed. If a bed is not present they are replaces by two captain’s chairs, or a couch and chairs. The couch may also be a sleeper couch. Where there is an overcab presenter Class C can sleep more than Class A motorhomes, up to 10 people. The cost of a new Class C ranges from £30,000 – £150,000.
Class B motorhomes are also referred to as van conversions, they are easy to distinguish from class A and class C motorhomes due to their regular van shape and raised roof. The advantage of owning a class B motorhome is their handling, due to their smaller size and more compact shape. They are ideal for families who don’t mind close quarters or couples who don’t want the up-keep of a larger motorhome. Class B motorhomes can suit those with smaller budgets with prices starting as low as £10,000 for a second hand vehicle.
Class A motorhomes are generally considered to be the top of the range of motorhomes. They can come with every luxury; a kitchen, bathroom with a shower and bath, even a separate bedroom depending on specification. They also come with heating, air conditioning, hot and cold running water, 100-125 volt electrics, living room area and dinette with couch, recliners and an entertainment center. In some cases, class A motorhomes can be more luxurious than some homes.
There are also further distinctions to be made for class A motorhomes by the manufacturer such as luxury coaches or bus conversions. Luxury coaches are usually the high end models in a manufacturer’s line, and have more expensive construction and amenities. Bus conversions built in a bus shell but still luxury vehicles, the shell can be actual old buses that are self conversions.
Class A motorhomes can sleep up to 8 people depending on model; however this comes at a cost. Class A style motorhomes cost upwards of £250,000 and the luxury line can cost over £1,000,000. For those on a small budget, solace can be found in the second hand market with several year old models range of £20,000 – £60,000.
If you are fortunate to be a motorhome owner and looking for a fantastic motorhome quote, call Sureterm Direct on 0800 999 2030. Sureterm Direct are motorhome insurance specialists.