Which one is better built. Pros and cons

The Sahara and the Beaver will be very similar. We had a 30 foot 1996 Sahara which should be the same floorplan as the Beaver. Due to the shorter size, we didn't have the velvet ride suspension, we had leaf springs and added a couple because the back end squatted a bit. Never had a problem with "porpoising" and the shorter length. Easier to maneuver with 5 feet less in campgrounds/sites, too (but still had everything we wanted in the rig). The CAT engine and Allison transmission were great and very dependable. (Although the engine was 250 hp). Went halfway across the country a couple of times and all the way across to the New England states in 2013. Previous owner (we were the 2nd owners) had taken it to FL and back. No issues.

Roof leaks were a problem. The top is a one piece fiberglass cover and we had issues with the end caps, where the satellite was mounted and the fiberglass cover in general (cracking) because it had to be sealed with a couple coats of elastomeric "paint" every year by the time we sold it in 2016.

We loved our Safari for the 9 years we had it. Yes, there was quite a bit of maintenance but it was comfortable, the build quality was unbelievable (solid wood cabinets, lots of lighting options - including several with dimmers, porcelain commode, wood floors, HUGE bathroom) and we met a lot of great people at the rally's and excellent information on the forums.

Leaks would be the main thing I'd check and maintenance records for the engine and transmission.

Buy a Bluebird Wanderlodge. They are the best used RV's on the market!

jassrnj wrote:
I’m shopping for a older model class a diesel. I would like any feedback you can give me on these three brands

Safari Sahara 1998 35 foot
Winnebago Vectra 1997 35 foot
Beaver Monterey 30 foot

All have mileage between 70000 to 100000 miles. And appear to be in good condition for the age. I will be narrowing my choices and traveling to inspect each one. Your help will assist me in putting them in order for consideration.

Thanks. John

John, What is your budget? I wouldn't go to old as you end up with more things to upgrade. Always look at the date codes on the tiers.
I would add in Newmar to your mix and it would be #1 0r 2 on the list like this one. https://www.pplmotorhomes.com/used-rvs-for-sale/diesel-motorhomes/2001-newmar-dutchstar_rv-42047
If you can live without slides heare is a Quality coach that would be several spaces above those listed.
https://www.motorhomesoftexas.com/Pre-owned-Inventory-2000-Foretravel-Motorhome-36-U320-6964258?ref=list
Just wondering why you are looking at a short coach?
Bill

You didn't say what year Beaver, but the Beaver and the Sahara may be the same builder (SMC). Beavers are slightly higher quality in the house section than the Sahara. I've had no issues getting parts for my 96 Sahara. However, almost nothing has broken. I even have the original Norcold fridge.

If the Beaver has a Detroit Diesel, you may want to skip it. The CAT/Allison combo is good for 200k miles with oil changes and yearly radiator cleaning. The valve lash needs to be set at 30,000 and every 100,000 after that.

We are very happy with our Sahara.

Engine and drive train are commercial items
Plenty of parts and service mechanics

The Safari has a custom chassis and might have the Velvet ride suspension
Which can be a problem for parts depending on who you talk to
The body shell is Alu, the compartment doors are stainless steel
End caps and roof are fiberglass, ours had an LP Onan generator, I would have preferred a diesel generator, if I was shopping now, that LP genny would be a deal breaker

Winnie is great for documentation and parts

might be able to get parts for the winnie.
bumpy

Considering the age of the RVs you are considering, overall condition and the care it has received over the years is much more important than the quality of the build when new.

Personally I think you put them in the right order. The maintenance records and a COMPLETE inspection would be the determining factor for me.
I am assuming that you have already determined that the floor plans are what you want.
Naturally you are looking at used RV's which may mean that they will require some work to continue to operate with few issues. If you are competent to do the work, pick the one that looks like it will be the easiest to maintain.