Advice on a Class C sizes..... 26' or 31'

Baja Man wrote:

However.....are the pre-2009 with the lower GVWR not as capable as the 2009+ models? Since we travel with 4, a small dog, all gear, AND tow a 2500# boat, are beyond a pre 2009s limits?

I want to get the correct Class C I can get within my budget, that will meet my requirements, but don't want to regret something later (even thought that sometimes is unavoidable).

The older chassis doesn't have as high of weight capacity, so in that respect it's not as capable. However, whether the finished RV is adequate for your needs is hard to answer: it depends mainly on how heavy the finished RV is, which in turn depends on the construction methods and how it is equipped. For instance, if you're willing to forego the slide, you can save a good chunk of weight. Heavier cabinetry, fancier flooring materials, dual air conditioners, larger tanks, and so forth all contribute weight, too.

My 32' (actual overall length) 1998 class C has just under 2000 pounds of "net carrying capacity"; with full water and propane, that leaves about 1500 pounds for people, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. With care, it could probably meet your weight requirements...but there would not be a lot of excess. I don't think it's all that common to find standard class C motorhomes, particularly larger ones, with especially large carrying capacities regardless of the year of the chassis; the makers tend to fill up additional weight carrying capability for you. A "super C", built on a heavier duty truck chassis, is an entirely different matter.