I'm thinking of buying a Class A motorhome and I am debating gas vs diesel. Just wondering the pros and cons. Mileage differences? Cost of maintenance? Advantages of one over another? Thanks for your input in advance.

If you going to keep it and use it long term then Diesel. Tag axle if diesel for the ride you will get. A lot more weight for the diesel and tires are a lot more to some point.

In terms of the engine type itself taken in isolation, there isn't a vast difference overall. A diesel engine will get somewhat better mileage per gallon, in no small part because diesel fuel has a greater energy density (and, not coincidentally, density in the ordinary sense of mass per unit volume).However, for class A motorhomes, there are many other differences that also almost always come along with the engine type, even though they are not inherently related. Gas motorhomes are practically always front engine units, usually built on the Ford F-53 chassis, with a leaf spring suspension. Diesel class A motorhomes are practically always rear engine pusher designs, usually with air suspension, and often larger and heavier and more upscale than gas models. The rear engine makes for a quieter cockpit area when on the road, and the air suspension a smoother ride. The lack of the engine in front can also make for a roomier or more open cockpit area, depending on the specific design. On the other hand, some gas motorhomes have a large storage compartment in the back that cannot exist with a rear engine.Maintenance costs are probably a little higher for the diesel units, often because they're bigger and heavier and may have more complex systems. Larger tires, for example, are significantly expensive than smaller ones. The diesel engines typically have longer scheduled maintenance intervals, but when required the maintenance tends to be more costly, so the expenses end up being more "lumpy" over time.

Think of the initial outlay first. Diesel motorhomes will cost significantly more from the get-go. But, as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for.

There are good comments on this thread. We went with a pusher 4 years ago in large part because we are older and wanted a more pleasant drive -- quieter, smoother. Our 38' rig also drives a lot easier (more stable) than the gassers I tested. We don't measure mileage - I figure if we did that then perhaps RVing isn't for us. We have a pro do our maintenance - $350 for oil/filters each year. We did the tranny for $400 which is less frequent. We did our 90k service for $900 last spring. We use a mechanic that specializes in diesel trucks. I hope this helps and good luck.

There's also the performance issue. If traveling in the West or through mountains, a diesel will always out perform a gas engine. Depending on the size of the motorhome, getting in and out of gas stations could be an issue too with a gas engine. With a diesel, you fuel up where the big trucks do and avoid that problem. Yes you pay more up front for the unit but you get more when you sell it too. Lots to think about!

Diesel vs Gas | Good Sam Community

wa8yxm
Explorer III
Aug 11, 2020
Ok Gas or Diesel.

Gasoline powered are generally less expensive both up front and to repair (engine/drive train repairs) however Most gassers are front engine and most diesels are pushers,. this has a serious effect on how noisy the ride (The rear engine is not as loud).

Diesels have a reputation for LONG LIFE

And more torque at lower RPM (Can be useful when the light turns green or going up a mountain road)

There are some other differences as well.

I'm trained on gasoline engine repair so most minor work I can do myself. THus I picked a gasser,
Mommalu
Explorer
Aug 13, 2020
Depends on your needs. We started with a gas MH because we could store it in our back yard. Jumping from a truck and trailer we weren't sure we would be happy with a motorhome, a gaser is cheaper to start with.
However after a few years, gaining confidence we realized a DP would be a better choice.
We figured out the storage issue, and realized we love having a motorhome. We found a local shop for all mechanical needs.
The rear diesel keeps ALL the engine noise in the back, 30 plus feet away, no more shouting at each other. The air ride removes most of jostling and noise from the road expansion joints and such.
It's quiet, smooth and the mpg is better than the gas. With gas we ranged between 5 to 8 mpg depending on wind, hills and speed, I drive the speed limit. The diesel averages 7.9 to 8.5 under the same conditions.
We have no regrets. Good luck with your decision!

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