[Junior Guru]

Jeb,

We bought our first motorhome 6 months ago (a 2003 Newell) after looking for about a year. We looked at new as well as nearly new coaches including Newmar. In our price range I was very disappointed in the quality of just little things like doors, windows, cabinets, etc. to the point I just couldn't justify cost vs value of a newer coach. I'm the type of guy that likes sturdy things and I abhor cheaply made things no matter what it is. I felt some corners were cut in the coaches I looked at and that I would be unhappy after the temporary newness feeling wore off.

We never considered older coaches of any brand as I figured they would have fallen a part based on what I had seen. Until a friend recommended that we look at some "older" Prevost and Newell's in the same price range. I was floored at the difference and how much more value you can get for the same price. And many if not most of the owners of Newell's take meticulous care of them and can afford to fix them when needed. Mileage and usage is really a non issue, unless a coach hasn't been driven enough. In fact, the more a newell is used the better as most if not all of the little things are kept in working condition.

I'm biased I suppose. But to me it's a no brainer. Go with a used Newell.