Forum Discussion

timjet's avatar
timjet
Explorer
Dec 30, 2016

Is a Dutch Star better

I am considering the purchase of a used 2010 40 ft 1.5 bath Dutch Star about 1000 miles away. These units don't come up for sale often. I would have to arrange for a house and chassis inspection and there are some possible issues with this particular unit that I would have to resolve, like 3 previous owners and the current owner is selling due to divorce.

I have looked locally at some Tiffin 40' Phaeton's with the 1.5 bath. 2011 is the first year they made these. Listing prices for the Phaeton's are about 10-20 grand more than the '10 Dutch Star but considerably more are available.

I have thought the Dutch Star with the slightly bigger engine - 400 hp Cummins, better insulation, Spartan chassis, and comfort drive to be a superior coach as compared to the Phaeton's.

Would like to get opinions on whether going the long distance and expensive of viewing the Dutch Star is worth it. In other words is the Dutch Star a significantly better coach than the Phaeton's?
DW and I have seen the Phaeton's and like them and have never seen a Dutch Star. Just looking for advice, thanks.
Tim

14 Replies

  • Check out EVERYTHING , go for a drive,in addition to the Tiffin you will get a side radiator!
    Siggy
  • timjet wrote:
    I am considering the purchase of a used 2010 40 ft 1.5 bath Dutch Star about 1000 miles away. These units don't come up for sale often. I would have to arrange for a house and chassis inspection and there are some possible issues with this particular unit that I would have to resolve, like 3 previous owners and the current owner is selling due to divorce.

    I have looked locally at some Tiffin 40' Phaeton's with the 1.5 bath. 2011 is the first year they made these. Listing prices for the Phaeton's are about 10-20 grand more than the '10 Dutch Star but considerably more are available.

    I have thought the Dutch Star with the slightly bigger engine - 400 hp Cummins, better insulation, Spartan chassis, and comfort drive to be a superior coach as compared to the Phaeton's.

    Would like to get opinions on whether going the long distance and expensive of viewing the Dutch Star is worth it. In other words is the Dutch Star a significantly better coach than the Phaeton's?
    DW and I have seen the Phaeton's and like them and have never seen a Dutch Star. Just looking for advice, thanks.
    Tim

    You talk like these are the only two coaches that meet the standards, you're obviously looking for, when in fact there are others out there, as good, if not better and so popular when first sold, that there are many used ones, now available at some very good prices.
    American is one of them IMO and naturally, as an owner, I'm somewhat biased towards them or at least the older models, anyway.
  • Never owned a Tiffin so can't comment. Having been a long time forum member I've read almost nothing but good regarding the brand as well as the aftermarket support. Exceptions are few same as Newmar. As for the Newmar Dutch Star so far I have been quite pleased. Pleased with the product, the dealer network, as well as the factory support. Best of luck with your decision.
  • I'll start by saying that I have not owned either, but have seen and spoke with owners of both rigs. IMO, Newmar is a better built rig so if you can get an equal model for fewer $$$$'s, I believe the ride to check it out is worth it. Good luck with your search.

    Lou
    05 Travel Supreme Envoy