Back in '69 we bought a new Layton 21' TT and then a Continental to tow it. That was a great combination. A Lincoln does not make a great toad behind a gasser. I had to go to lighter cars to be able to tow behind my MHs. It would be well worth getting the 8.1L over the 454 but the 454 Vortec that came out in '96 was pretty good also. We have been RVing since the '69 Layton and have had almost everything in that time from popup to 39'MH. You are righyt in it being easier to travel with the family ready to pull in for the night. I would not encourage the electronic games myself. There is a lot to be learned from passing through the different areas of the country. We have been to 48 states & from B.C. to Nova Scotia in Canada with children & Grandchildren.