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ttucke5's avatar
ttucke5
Explorer
Jul 28, 2013

mid engine Class A

Anyone have any pros or cons in regards to a mid engine diesel class A motorhome. I'm looking at purchasing one, but I'm not sure if their are any inherent problems.

10 Replies

  • For many years, Leyland Motors (in the UK) made under-floor engined transit and long-distance single-decker coaches. Most had a 350 cu.in., 6-cylinder diesel engine and 4-speed stick-shift. The engine was laid on its side about midway between the front an rear axles. I think they made some of the long-distance chassis with their humongous 680 cu. in. engine to get a high-speed cruise on the freeways.

    I can remember being passed on the freeway, when riding my Vespa, by 45' coaches doing 85 mph or more. I got a real lesson on wake turbulence!
  • I have heard that the mid engine Newmar Allstar model was very easy to service. No first hand knowledge.
  • Travel Supreme made a 41' with a garage you could put a Smart car in. I always thought that was a cool idea.
  • The All Star was a great rig. The only reason they stopped building them I believe was the price point. It was designed with the younger family in mind. Unfortunately the finances of that demographic was not good after the '08 crunch.
    I have not heard any negatives in regards to the ME Spartan chassis.
  • this is a 2007 Newmar all star 3951, with a cummins 350. we have 4 kids so need the beds
  • I think it is a great design! I particularly liked the four ahead seating on one floor plan. That would be great for a Family of four!
    The upstairs...downstairs ..bedrooms are also appealing!
    I would not use a Toy Hauler ...garage...but for those that have quads Or bikes i can certainly relate!
  • Newmar used one for a while, advantage was layout flexibility, could do low floor toy hauler and upstairs/downstairs bedroom configurations. That would be my reason to buy, a floorplan not available in rear engine.

    Disadvantages? Maybe access for service more difficult, maybe more noise where passengers ride, compared to rear engine.