10 years with our 8.1 gas, workhorse chassis, Winnebago 31 foot class A.
We bought it new, has 30K miles on it. Some years it pretty much sat due to out of work and no $$ for gas. Now that things are improving we are getting out more but gas is super expensive when you get about 8mpg. So we have to think about the cost for anything long distance. When we bought it gas was $1.65 a gal.
We have an excellent floor plan with large tanks - pretty much what you find in a DP. What we would gain is more floor space with a longer coach - at least 36' for a diesel - as well as a better ride and more quiet.
We think we'll use our gas coach 'till ready for retirement and then get a DP, sell the house, and live in it at least part time.
For weekending and vacations a gas coach is fine. It is actually faster than the diesels, at least in my short length and relatively low gross weight. Finding a car at or under 3K lbs makes a huge difference - a lighter car is just a lot easier to tow up and down grades. We get about 9mpg towing a 3K lb car if I keep the speed at 60. If I drive it 65 it gets under 8. How much you put your foot into it determines how much gas you'll use. With the bigger units with gas motor you kind have to have your foot in it all the time, especially if towing. Our chassis is gvw is 22,500lbs and the coach is 17.5K loaded. So even with a car in tow we are not even to gvw. GVCW is another 5K lbs on top of that. It's an enviable position to be in for performance.
The units didn't gain much from our 2005 model, an extra slide and full body paint. Otherwise they're pretty much the same, even the smaller diesels. Over 36-38' then you really need to look at a DP and yes they are a lot nicer.
