Older aluminum sided rigs had a lot of seams that could loosen up and let rain water get to wood.Newer ones have better siding and joint design that is less leak prone. Don't use silicone sealers, use "real" RV sealers.
Many older rigs were much heavier but used less powerful carbureted engines. Newer rigs with Ford Triton V-10 engines, with electronic fuel injection, and higher capacity cooling systems, are much better pulling up long grades without overheating.
Many typical motorhome destinations involve mountain driving where good power, good cooling system, good brakes, and intelligent down-shifting and speed control are essential.
