Sep-05-2014 03:39 PM
Sep-07-2014 03:32 PM
Actually the Lance was $25,000, and they hold their value better than most.
The AS, since Thor bought them are not what they use to be, and I can't justify paying $60,000 for something that in my opinion, is way over priced, and over hyped.
Also, I can pay cash for a $25,000 trailer, but not a $60,000 one, and if I can't pay cash I don't buy it.
I look at the older AS my friend has and it is built so much better that my other friends new one.
For bigger tanks, way more storage, and living space, I'm willing to loose a little more on the back end.
I see AS added rock guards to both front sides to keep rocks from damaging the sides of the trailer. I wonder if this is because the aluminum their using is thinner?
Sep-07-2014 03:09 PM
Sep-07-2014 02:54 PM
Sep-07-2014 02:26 PM
Wally Byam and the WBCCI promoted these trailers and created a cult following.
Sep-07-2014 02:12 PM
I looked hard at a new 19' AS, but at almost twice the price of the 19' Lance, and no 4 Season package, or slide out, I just couldn't justify the price of the AS.
Sep-07-2014 12:35 PM
Sep-07-2014 11:43 AM
Sep-07-2014 07:31 AM
texasclarks wrote:chorbelt wrote:
I don't get the hit on Airstreams not having storage; no TT's have decent storage. FWIW, once I'm ready to get rid of the POS Komfort, I'll be getting an Airstream.
I too should love to ditch my current TT, but with two kids I can't afford one nor get one with enough dedicated bed,
Sep-07-2014 06:48 AM
Sep-07-2014 06:44 AM
jmtandem wrote:I know Airstreams have been around for a long time and have many loyal customers. But what is so special about them that helps them hold their resale value and their initial sales price when compared to other trailers of similar size other than just outside looks.
About two thirds of Airstreams made since the mid 1930's are still in use. That is way better than most box trailers that often don't make it much farther than the payment period. Maybe that is one reason why they hold their value better. They last longer!
And no rubber roof or filon/gel sides to delam. Another plus.
And torsion axles instead of the normal springs. Torsion axles are typically on the higher value products.
The Airstream is iconic, the image is the one often first thought of when thinking 'travel trailer'. Image and perception are for many reality; reality is often irrevelant.
Airstream is more of a luxury item than it is an RV. It just happens to be a luxury item that is also an RV. Airstream's marketing recognizes the luxury aspects of the product. It is not just another standard box trailer.
Like Harley Davidson and Boeing, Airstream's name has recognition with 'America', 'American made' and a long history of being part and parcel of American industry. Some folks really like that.
The Airstream folks have a well organized club, with many regional chapters that are very active. Friends almost everywhere you want to go. Airstream's founder Wally Byam was a marketing genius and the following he had was contageous. He took trips around the world with his customers and their Airstreams often months long and remote places like the entire length of Africa.
Airstream is still often quoted as the standard that most measure their TT products by in terms of quality and longevity.
Now you have a few reasons why Airstream sells every one they make and why many don't balk at the prices. A product that lasts 40 or 50 years is far less expensive that three TT's that last 15 or so years each. Long term life cycle costs are likely less on an Airstream than any other travel trailer.
Go get one!!! You too can then enjoy the benefits of being an Airstreamer.
Sep-06-2014 08:35 PM
chorbelt wrote:
I don't get the hit on Airstreams not having storage; no TT's have decent storage. FWIW, once I'm ready to get rid of the POS Komfort, I'll be getting an Airstream.
Sep-06-2014 08:25 PM
Sep-06-2014 05:26 PM
Sep-06-2014 02:04 PM
I know Airstreams have been around for a long time and have many loyal customers. But what is so special about them that helps them hold their resale value and their initial sales price when compared to other trailers of similar size other than just outside looks.
Sep-06-2014 08:21 AM