what is better Freightliner or Spartan

In the past, Spartan was a step up from the FL chassis. Nowadays, Spartan seems to be fading out of the RV market and FL seems to be getting stronger/better. IMO, older coaches with Spartan chassis would be preferable over FL, new coaches are probably just the opposite.
But I'm sure either one will serve you well.

Looking at Newmar's chassis spec. with the Spartan chassis there are two models of the Essex that will you will gain 1100 pounds of carrying capacity. over the F/Linner.

The OP's is getting an Essex, that will have IFS with either chassis. and you won't know the difference driving it. I believe the F/Liner will have a shorter turn radius.

Spartan used to be a step up...side radiator, IFS and more. Now I think they are pretty much the same.

Don't think it is still true but the Spartan under my 04 tradewinds was independent front suspension, some other brands I looked at the time had FL chassis with single axel fronts. When I test drove them I liked the Spartan. That coach is gone and so much changed with the 08 crash that this info my be of no help.
JW

Which is better Ford, Chevy, or Dodge and why? This is a personal preference question. Monaco at one time made their own chassis and argued that theirs was best.

Try to drive both and see what you like better. Avoid getting caught up in marketing catch lines. Drive them in town, over speed bumps in a parking lot, up and down hills, in a wind if you can, make quick simulated corrections etc. both will have different behaviours in these conditions. Pick what YOU like better, not what somebody says is better. I get to drive lots of different chassis and have found some chassis are nicer to drive than others but maybe have some undesirable quirks in some situations. For example, many like IFS (independant front suspension). I prefer solid beam but sometimes prefer IFS in city situations. My neighbour is just the opposite. Point is, get what you like.

fcooper wrote:
I have no experience with Spartan. Freightliner still gives me excellent support via their free help desk even though my unit is 15 years old

Fred

Our's is also, and Spartan has a phone too.

http://www.spartanchassis.com/schome.asp

cmarq wrote:
It is easier to find Freightliner dealers

But any truck shop can work on a Spartan. There is no magic involved or secrets kept by the freight liner folk.

What type of problem would you have that would require a specialist to work on a chassis?