By Steve Savage, Mobility RV Service
The other day someone asked me how to go about finding the same high-end features found in a more expensive RV, in a less expensive RV. I guess this boils down to, “I want to have the same features found in a Cadillac, only I want them in my Chevrolet.” The short answer to this question should be obvious. You can’t — and here’s why.
In the majority of cases, the difference between the less expensive and the more expensive RV is far more than the “sum of the options” list. Normally, increased cost brings with it better construction, a bigger power train, larger wheels and tires, and so forth.
It’s a big mistake to tell yourself a $40,000 fifth wheel package has as much quality construction as a $120,000 fifth wheel. To put it bluntly, it doesn’t, and the extra cost goes well beyond window dressing like additional flat screen TVs — and while they may increase livability, they add nothing to quality.
This same line of thinking carries over to folks who think that by upgrading a Yugo, they will end up with a BMW. Attempting something similar in an RV generally results in a poorly integrated system or out-of-place features. While the next owner may appreciate the addition of granite counter tops in a mid-line motorhome, there is not a chance the current owner will gain back even a fraction of the cost when selling — regardless of what they may have told their spouse.
The best way I can summarize this ramble is this way: Buy what you want, or buy less expensive and live with it until you can afford what you want. Never try to convince yourself that, with effort, you can make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. It’s a costly mistake I see all-too-many owners make.
