Forum Discussion

rbp111's avatar
rbp111
Explorer
Mar 27, 2014

Montana 3100RL vs Heartland 3160 Elite

I am looking at these two fifth-wheels and was wondering if anyone can give me their input on them. They are similar in size, the biggest difference is that the Montana has more storage above the dining table and the two chairs, and the Heartland has none, but the openness of the windows. The Montana has a portable kitchen island, the Heartland is permanent. The Heartland has a closet which can be made into a pantry. There is a difference in holding tanks, Montana has 66 gals and Heartland has 75 gals.

They are about the same in cost. Just wondering what other people thinks of these two.

Specifically I would like to know: How durable are they? Is it well built? Is the loss of the cabinets over the chairs and tables significant? Are the cabinets well made? Anything else?

6 Replies

  • richfaa's avatar
    richfaa
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    We have also had two Montana 5th wheels and they "have served us well" We would have to define "minimal problems" we have had 4 of what I would call major problems the rest being minimal and I would expect no better or worse from the Heartland. The Heartland Jayco, Montana in the comparable model and floor plan are all good 5th wheels. That we have had two Montana's is simply a matter of floor plan and choice. A good negotiator can purchase any one of them for about the same price.
  • cummins2014's avatar
    cummins2014
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    richfaa wrote:
    For us the floor plan would be the determining factor. You will be living in in so buy what meets your needs. Durability is no better in either brand. They are built by the same workforce in the same place using the same vendor items. Build quality is not job one in the RV industry.



    I have to echo what richfaa has said, but with that being said, have had two Montana fifth wheels that have served us well with minimal problems. Many are happy with either one, and some that are not. You will surely hear from both.
  • richfaa's avatar
    richfaa
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    For us the floor plan would be the determining factor. You will be living in in so buy what meets your needs. Durability is no better in either brand. They are built by the same workforce in the same place using the same vendor items. Build quality is not job one in the RV industry.
  • goducks10's avatar
    goducks10
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    For us it would be the Heartland in a heartbeat:)
    Having the tv directly across from the seating is nicer. The W/D closet could also be used for coats and shoes.
  • FSJPat's avatar
    FSJPat
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    Go sit in them, spend some time in each opening and closing doors and cabinets and walking through each. Sit on the furniture, and imagine yourself doing your normal everyday routine in each.

    I went to a dealer thinking about two particular models, and bought a completely different rig that I hadn't considered looking online. After spending a good bit of time in all the different models, the Bighorn that I have now felt like home to me. I live in my rig, so that was important to me, and I am still very happy with my choice.
  • Sandia_Man's avatar
    Sandia_Man
    Explorer II
    Mar 27, 2014
    Both are very nice rigs, but the Heartland Elite would be more suited for our particular preferences. Never cared for the layout in the Montana where the TV is stuck in a corner behind the dinette, plus the bathroom in the Elite is more appealing to us. Ultimately it's your call, either unit should provide a comfortable camping experience. Enjoy your new 5er!!!

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