Buying our next Class A RV

[cdmunoz279]

We currently have a 1998 Tiffin Allegro and have really enjoyed it. We are now in the beginning process of looking at purchasing another Class A, but am torn between 2 very wellknown manufacturers. It's a toss-up between the Tiffin Allegro 35QBA and the Winnabago Vista 35B. I know asking opinions is subjective, but would like to hear any experiences that you might have. I'm mainly concerned with how easily each of the units are to drive. My current unit lane-walks a lot and my wife finds it difficult to handle. Does anyone have any experience in how either of these 2 units handle on the road?

We'd really like to hear any opinions you have on either or both of these 2 units.

Thanks,
John M.

[willald]

Like already said, floorplan and features is what you need to look at, and what should be the main determining factor here.

We looked at both of the models being compared here, the Allegro 35QBA and Winnebago 35B (as well as a few others). We really did not like the Allegro 35QBA floorplan as much, for 2 reasons:

1. Did not like that kitchen slideout on curb side - When that slide is out, it really cuts into your space outside, under the awning. Never have liked any slideout that cuts into your space under the awning.

2. Absolutely hated how the recliner/chair is behind the main door, instead of in front of it on many other models.

For those reasons and several others, we ended up with the Georgetown 351DS, which has a very similar floorplan to the Winnebago 35B. Only reason we didnt go with the Winnebago: Only dealer around here that carried it was not very willing to deal, whereas Georgetown dealer made us a really, really good offer we couldn't turn down.

One other thing I'd like to mention:

At 35 foot I would think the 24,000 lb chassis would be better, sounds like the 22,000lb would be max weight on a 35 foot motorhome...

..Not true at all. Our 36' Georgetown 351DS (similar floorplan to the Winnebago 35B mentioned here) sits on the 20,500 chassis with 19.5 rims. It is not anywhere NEAR 'max weight'. MH weighs around 16,800 empty, leaving plenty of payload capacity (close to 4,000 lbs). And, yes, I have verified this with a trip to the CAT scales. And, yes, it rides very well, we are very happy with it.

I prefer the 20,500 chassis and 19.5 rims. Tires are a good bit less expensive to replace, and easier to put on/off.

But, like already said, of the two models mentioned, handling and road manners will be very close to the same. The choice comes down to which floorplan, features you like best.

[smacdiesel]

I just bought a Winnebago Vista 35b, made a deposit and won't take delivery until August. Keep in mind, the 2015 models that are just coming out are significantly different than what you probably have seen. Redesigned front cap, dash, 4" more bottom storage, recessed led ceiling lights and a LP gas portal on the passenger side. I originally was interested in a Thor ACE 30.2 but changed my mind and went with the Winnebago.
I don't think you could go wrong with either of your choices, the rear master bath on the 35b is a nice option for our growing family and friends we hope to bring along on our ventures.

[Goldencrazy]

Go with the floor plan you like best. Floor plan is everything when other things are nearly equal.

[Beacher]

hanko wrote:
24,000 chasis longer wheel base, go with the tiffin

It's going to feel virtually the same, especially once fully loaded.

[timmac]

okgc wrote:
Both should drive virtually the same. Current 2014 Tiffin 35 QBA with four slides is on a Ford 24,000 lb chassis and the Winnebago 35B with 3 slides shows on the Ford 22,000 lb chassis.

If road ability and handling are very important consider a DP. There are some very nice used ones in this same price range.

At 35 foot I would think the 24,000 lb chassis would be better, sounds like the 22,000lb would be max weight on a 35 foot motorhome, my 32 foot sits on the 22,000lb chassis with 19.5 rims.

[AllegroD]

New or used? If used, what years?

[Heisenberg]

I had a 96 F53 Chassis. The 2013 is far superior handling.

[cdmunoz279]

Thanks for the feedback. That gives us a lot more things to take into consideration. We are definitely torn between the 2. We find the Winnabago more "cushy" as far as the furniture - the Tiffin is nice, but the furniture seems a little stiff and hard. We'd have it made if we could combine the 2 with the features we like from both!

Thanks again for the feedback!

[Gjac]

What I did not like about the Vista is it did not have full basement storage but had the cut out doors. I think your current MH has the full basement doors and you might miss that storage area.

[hanko]

24,000 chasis longer wheel base, go with the tiffin

[okgc]

Both should drive virtually the same. Current 2014 Tiffin 35 QBA with four slides is on a Ford 24,000 lb chassis and the Winnebago 35B with 3 slides shows on the Ford 22,000 lb chassis.

If road ability and handling are very important consider a DP. There are some very nice used ones in this same price range.