Mondooker - Sure understand the rules of keeping the DW engaged, and happy... A wise man knows when to take what he can get in these negotiations.. And IMO, getting out and having fun and starting the RV'ing experience in a new gasser, is better then not getting out at all:)! (I'm a DP fan, and believe in buying the highest quality coach that you find, dropping years to remain within budget range. But, I'd for sure not fight that battle and 'not' RV at all, I too would go with what is acceptable to the both of you:)!
I'm also a believer and having the as much extra sturdiness as possible in a chassis. So I would lean towards the two Newmar's with the 26K chassis. One thing I don't think I've seem mentioned, is to also check the CCC. Between the two Newmar's, one is longer then the other (both in coach and wheel base). So taking a good look at the differences in CCC and towing capacity (if that is important to you) would be worth checking into.
Best of luck to you, have fun!!!!
Smitty