Wow, you got a great deal! After reading what you mentioned, I'd have to agree, it's worth considering a 1996-2002 Chevy based Class B if it could be purchased for around $11,000 or so, like you. I'd even be willing to spend a few grand more, because even if it needs a bunch of repairs, I'd probably be way ahead of the game financially. A nice (and better road handling) alternative to the older Dodges.
I know the newer Cheyvs are the nicest, but in the back of my mind, I just hate paying up front for the depreciation. Unless I know I'll keep it for 10 years and 100,000 miles to really get my money's worth out of it. My only concern with the 1996-2002 Chevys is that I am under the impression they are not as well built or reliable as the 2003 and newer. I say this because at work, back in the late 1990s, we had that 1997 Chevy diesel 15 passenger and it was nothing but trouble. Then the 2000 model we had was only slightly better. A bunch of the issues were related to the diesel engine though, surprisingly, but maybe a gas powered unit would be more reliable. I see very few Class B diesels, most are gas.
So, I think I'm going to modify my search criteria:
First Choice (if I can stretch the budget to $40k or more): 2003 or newer Chevy based Class B (preferably a Roadtrek 170 or 190) if I can stretch my budget that far, or unless I find an amazing deal. So far all seem to be high $30's or into the $40's but should be the most reliable and give peace of mind.
Second Choice (more budget friendly): 1996-2002 Chevy based Class B or Ford, ideally a non-Triton gas (or maybe a Triton and do preventative maintenance but I'd rather pass on it just in case) or 7.3 Powerstoke diesel (more rare), if priced right ($10k to $20k) and in good condition, budget for some repairs, sway bar kit, upgrade stereo (since it will probably be cassette), new tires, etc. Might not be a Roadtrek, but as long as the floor plan works for me, I'll consider it.
(Distant) Third Choice: 1998-2003 Dodge based Class B, ranked third choice only because I don't like the handling. Prices seem to be in the high teens for a well used one, to $20's and even low $30's for a more pristine unit, at least with the Roadtreks I've been looking at online.
Like you said; "Money spent on depreciation of newer stuff doesn't buy anything real, but money spent on a well kept older model may save quite a bit, depreciation has slowed." That's what I was thinking when I started this thread, I just didn't put into words as well as you did. Mind you, I was thinking of an older Dodge vs a newer Chevy, but the concept is the same. Thank you to all of you! There's been some great information exchanged here that I did not come across or think of in my fairly extensive research up until now. :)
