Forum Discussion

semiretired1's avatar
semiretired1
Explorer
Feb 21, 2016

Older Monaco Windsor vs Newer Forest River Berkshire

Hello all,

My wife and I have decided to upgrade to a used class A diesel pusher. In about 18 months our plan is to hit the road for a least a year, if not longer. We have looked at many pushers over the last couple of months both in person and online.
We have found 2 particular units we are interested in and are looking for some in put from anyone who is interested in offering some advice.

First one: 2003 40' Monaco Windsor 370 hp cummins with a roadmaster chassis, it has 70,000 miles on it. The unit is in great shape and loaded including every available option plus an aqua hot heating system. New tires. Asking $98,000 cdn.

Second one: 2008 37' Forest River Berkshire 300 hp cummins on a freightliner chassis, it has 36,000 miles on it. This unit is in good shape with a standard package. Original tires. Asking $80,000 cdn.

As we are potential fulltimers (or at least long timers), would anyone care to offer their opinion on which would be the better buy and which would hold its value more?
  • But you got to read between the lines because everybody is going to be baised towards what they own. I could bet that the Newmar and Country Coach owners would also tell you that their coach is the best. LOL

    All I know is that Warren Buffett owns Hathaway Berkshire and everything he makes is pretty well made. His companies are pretty solid and have not being going belly up like Monaco has several times. So it is also something to consider.
  • You are very welcome. This is an amazing forum, with thousands of years of combined experience. Most everyone will help in any way possible.
    The link at the top of the forum... RVing FAQ's is a great place to start reading.
    Enjoy
  • Thank you all for your comments...very much clears the muddy waters. We learned today know what CCC stands for...thank you Nutinelse2do.
  • semiretired1 wrote:
    Thank you for your reply Executive...We are new RV forums, what does "CCC" stand for?

    CCC... Cargo Carrying Capacity. No comparison in the 2 coaches. Pick the 370hp Monaco.
    Welcome to the forum!
  • Thank you for your reply Executive...We are new RV forums, what does "CCC" stand for?
  • The Monaco Windsor was probably one of the best coaches Monaco ever made. Obviously they made more expensive models, but at it's price point, you can't beat a Windsor. When the economy went south in 08-09, people grabbed up the Windsors when they came available.
  • I totally agree with Dennis. The Windsor hands down. A much better made coach with solid woods and fitment.
  • Being partial to Monaco products, I'd pick the Windsor. Also, you'll find the difference in CCC on the coaches is most likely huge. As a full timer, you'll want and need as much CCC as possible. Look closely at the fit and finish on both coaches. Monaco will have solid wood and use screws to hold everything in place. Not sure if the Berk has staples and/or laminate. You'll also appreciate the additional HP/Torque of the Windsor especially if you're planning on any west coast trips.....Dennis