Interesting discussion. We're in research mode, looking to jump in within the next couple years when we pull the plug. Very ineteresting to hear how many have gone from 1-2 previous DP's to gas and have no regrets. I think times, engines, trannies and other equipment is changing. Personally I can't get by the $80-100K initial purchase difference for similar size coach and features (granted no airbag ride in gasser). But the whole DEF thing is scary and only adds more to an already wide price margin from gas to diesel. For the record and the interest of those reading back through this thread in the future, I did research yesterday with the Gas Buddy app, checking real time gas prices across the country and here are a few price comparisons from 10/5/14:
Zipcode/Place Regular Diesel Margin (additional cost for diesel)
85701 Tuscon AZ 3.13 3.59 .46
65803 Springfield Mo 2.99 3.43 .44
20108 Manassas VA 3.03 3.79 .76
58501 Bismarck ND 3.39 3.79 .40
04101 Portland ME 3.39 3.67 .28
97201 Portland OR 3.25 3.53 .28
55801 Duluth MN 3.05 3.59 .54
33601 Tampa FL 3.15 3.55 .40
30301 Atlanta GA 3.26 3.79 .53
18501 Scranton PA 3.25 3.79 .54
From what I've found of owners disussing milages, it seems maybe older DP''s got better milage (early 2000's or older?) but seems to be little difference for newer models of similar sizes in gas or diesel. Anyway... enjoying the thread and I've got plenty of time before I make a decision. Since we're likely to put less than 10K miles a year, features and floor plan seem far more important to me. If fuel prices and initial costs weren't so disparate, it would be a much easier choice.
