trying to decide Class A or Class C (super?)

Busskipper wrote:

cross21114 wrote:
Comparing a Jayco Seneca 37 to a Class A. Any suggestions for me to consider. Thinking I might prefer driving a Class C over a Class A.
Thanks,
Chris

For me you need to define the MISSION.

What will this be used for?

How will it be used?

Who all will be using it?

Will it be on the Road or parked in a CG?

Dry or FHU's?

Until you know how and what you will be doing all the rest is just Likes and Dis-Likes.

IMHO, a Class A is the best of all - it combines most everything you can and will use an RV for.

But if you are going to HAUL a BIG trailer into smaller spots then a Super C might be for you.

Having used/owned almost every type of unit the one thing I know is that you will likely always move up, as it is just so hard to Size Down.

Best Of Luck in the quest to find the perfect RV for YOU!

x2 - define the mission. When we were making our latest change I put everything on the table (yes, I mean everything from truck campers up to As) and contrasted all I could vs our mission for the next couple years. It really helped to be confident before dropping all that money on a coach.

The tow ratings of DP motorhomes rival that of most Super C motorhomes. For example a Thor Palazzo 33.x motorhome has a GVWR of 26,000# and a GCWR of 30,000# with a tow rating of 10,000# the 35.x / 36.x versions have 28,000# GVWR 33,000# GCWR. Interestingly enough that is identical to the Seneca which is 28,000# GVWR 33,000# GCWR. However, with the Palazzo the base unloaded weight is around 21,000# or in some cases less. This means you have much more actual payload and tow capacity left over. The Seneca is much heaver due to it being a truck front. The other consideration is you get about as much actual living space in a 33.x (actual length 34.5') than a Seneca with an actual length of about 40'. The Seneca is based on the Freightliner M2 106 truck chassis. The reason for this is the entire front portion is not usable space. Now like all things there are exceptions in this. On the commercial Super C motorhomes they build their rigs on a Class 8 Volvo or Freightliner. They have 15L ISX engines, 18 speed Eaton manual or true truck automated manual transmissions some have the Allison 4,000 series truck transmission. They have live (powered) dual rear axles each rated at 20,000# with a split rear end (dual gear ratios). They have air brakes for the coach portion and air brakes for any trailer. The GCWR on these rigs is 80,000# just like an OTR truck. Typically, you can run 55,000# in the truck and 25,000# for the trailer. Those are "true" Super C motorhomes. They are designed for the racing circuit and shows etc. A factory built normal Class A or Super C with an Allison MH2500 and an Cummins ISB cannot ever match the power of a real Super C built on a Class 8 chassis.

cross21114 wrote:
Comparing a Jayco Seneca 37 to a Class A. Any suggestions for me to consider. Thinking I might prefer driving a Class C over a Class A.
Thanks,
Chris

For me you need to define the MISSION.

What will this be used for?

How will it be used?

Who all will be using it?

Will it be on the Road or parked in a CG?

Dry or FHU's?

Until you know how and what you will be doing all the rest is just Likes and Dis-Likes.

IMHO, a Class A is the best of all - it combines most everything you can and will use an RV for.

But if you are going to HAUL a BIG trailer into smaller spots then a Super C might be for you.

Having used/owned almost every type of unit the one thing I know is that you will likely always move up, as it is just so hard to Size Down.

Best Of Luck in the quest to find the perfect RV for YOU!

I am exited with SuperC, but never drove one.
I think the greatest advantage is towing capacity and easy of service.
Than it is hard to beat luxury of DP
I researched it few years ago and SuperC offers selection of engines not available otherwise.

We just traded a Jayco Class C for a used Winnebago Voyage Class A. We found that a class C is great for a family, but the A works better for a couple. Both drove well and are equally serviced by nearby garages.

First off I strongly advise against any Jayco product. That said the Super C units are on a medium duty truck chassis designed for freight. The turning radius is very poor compared to any class A unit. They typically have a long rear overhang which can be an issue as well. You have heat and noise from the engine and less usable space for a given wheelbase and length than a class A. Many new class A units have drop down front bunks negating even that difference. There are two major benefits to a super C: they can be easier to work on and since the engine is up front they cool better under heavy load. We had a C and now have an A. BTW I have a CDL and have driven trucks and buses for over 20 years.

You will also get to enjoy the engine noise right in front of you. Not as bad as a class a gasser, but nowhere as quiet as a dp.

cross21114 wrote:
Space seems pretty similar to Class As.

They are very much class c on the inside; build fit and finish, head room, everything

Actually, posting this in the class A forum would probably tilt the results a little. Try getting it move to Beginning TV or General Issues.

Great points, all. I do believe the Seneca has rear airbags. Driver seats do not reverse. Bed over cab would come in handy for grandkids.
I not been in one which I will do. Space seems pretty similar to Class As.