Which is better: Class A or Class C Motorhome?
A perfect motorhome is a combination of many different features that best suit your family's lifestyle. There are 2 types of motorhomes that are quite popular today: Class A and Class C. So, which type should you choose? Let's take a look at the two most popular motorhome types and dig deeper into which one is better for you.
Key Similarities
1. Bathrooms
Both Class A and Class C are equipped with full bathroom amenities such as bathtub and shower. Therefore, you do not need to worry about this issue when choosing Class A or C. In fact, bathrooms are a nightmare for RVs. Therefore, if you do not want to have this trouble then you should choose Motorhomes like Class A or Class C.
2. Sleeping Capacity
Sleeping space has never been a problem for spacious motorhomes like Class A or Class C. They can provide space for up to 3 people, very suitable for small families. If you need a motorhome that can accommodate 3 or more people, then either Class A or Class C will be the right choice for your family.
3. Facilities
Both types of motorhomes are fully equipped with facilities and amenities such as refrigerator, bathroom, wardrobe, cupboard, very convenient for long trips.
4. Unit to Operate
All functions of a house are equipped on the Motorhome, including the tractor. Therefore, you do not need an additional unit or a truck to tow these RVs. You will drive them yourself and your family will enjoy the trip without anyone else.
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Key Differences
1. Size
The most basic difference between Class A and Class C is the size. Class A is a larger motorhome, equipped with more amenities and luxury. The average size of a Class A RV lies between 25 to 45 feet and weighs around 13,000 – 30,000 pounds depending on the model you choose. The larger size of Class A motorhome is ideal for families that have more than 8 members. Class C motorhomes weigh around 10,000 – 12,000 pounds with a length of around 21 to 28 feet, these RVs are perfect for small families.
2. Space for Living
Class A RVs are on another level when compared to Class C RVs. The length of a Class A RV is big enough to fit not only a bedroom, a full-size fridge, and a big kitchen but a dining room as well. Class A has the ability to have king and queen-size beds along with plenty of space to walk around.
Class C RVs are by no means any of a lesser quality than Class A RVs. Class C RVs come in variants that have king and queen-size beds, but that cost space from other living spaces. Unlike Class A RVs the Class C RV only has room for sofas or dining areas; however, multipurpose beds are included in some of the Class C variants and can be converted into sofas.
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3. Fuel Consumption
One of the most prominent differences between the two classes is the amount of fuel they consume. The average gas mileage both classes provide varies significantly due to the difference in size. On average, the gas mileage of a Class A motorhome is 5 to 7 mpg and the Class C motorhome is 8 to 10 mpg.
4. Driving and Parking
The difference in size makes the driving experience a whole lot different. The Class A RV often feels like driving a truck; however, the bigger size is not just for show it provides the driver with an ample amount of visibility on the road. Class C RVs are easier to drive and feel more like a van than a truck but lack the visibility perk that you find in Class A RVs.
The Class C motorhome is compact to the point where it can absolutely fit in everywhere so if you park and camp at a lot, the Class C would definitely give you an upper hand compared to Class A motorhome.
Pros of Class A Motorhome
1. Luxurious Facilities
The Class A motorhome is enormous in terms of the facilities that it provides, including a fully equipment kitchen. The biggest advantage for the Class A is that its size is like an apartment so any apartment level facilities are included in Class A motorhomes.
Class A motorhomes have a very smooth riding experience as compared to other classes in addition, their motors are powerful enough to tow cars and boats.
2. Visibility
One of the greatest benefits of Class A RVs is their height which provides outstanding visibility on the road.
Cons of Class A Motorhome
1. Price
With many features, amenities and larger size, the price of Class A is also much more expensive. Currently, Class A is sold at an average price from $50,000 to $500,000.
2. Maneuverability
The greatest advantage of Class A motorhome turns out to be its major disadvantage. The massive size of Class A RVs restricts flexible maneuverability on roads that are narrow. If you plan on parking at various stations or different points, low maneuverability can cause you trouble in the future.
3. High Operational Cost
With bigger size comes bigger responsibility! Class A motorhomes are very expensive, but that is not the only problem. It consumes a high amount of fuel that requires a high operational cost. Along with high fuel costs, it is also expensive to repair and insure.
Pros of Class C Motorhome
1. Low Price
Although Class A RVs are luxurious, they are expensive in every aspect. Class C Motorhomes have lower purchasing costs, lower fuel costs and maintenance costs along with easy access to the engine.
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2. Safety
Safety is another area where Class C motorhome shines, the low ceiling height makes Class C RVs weak to gusts of wind. The positioning of the engine and front-end hood on Class C is designed so that it is directly in front of the driver seat, which can save you during accidents.
3. Finding a Mechanic is Easier
If something ever breaks on your RV finding parts is not only easier but cheaper as well. Any mechanic can work on a Class C motorhome and it can be serviced or fixed almost everywhere.
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4. Easier Driving
The compact design of Class C motorhome significantly contributes to flexible maneuverability and driving near campsites or in the city. The Class C does not have a trailer so you won’t have to worry about it swaying away.
Cons of Class C Motorhome
1. Less Storage
The compact design of the Class C motorhome leaves little space for exterior storage, although the interior is big the walking space between living and driving areas is lower than Class A motorhomes. For long-distance traveling with a huge amount of extra luggage Class C motorhomes can give you a hard time storing your goods.
2. Louder Cockpit and Unpleasant Driver Experience
Since the engine is located at the front, the engine noise can irritate you because the condensed structure of a Class C motorhome can increase the loudness of air conditioners and engine noise.
3. Smaller Size and Fewer Options for Floor Plans
Class C motorhomes are smaller Class A motorhomes, which means that they (Class C) do not have space for king or queen-size beds, have a small water storage tank, and have fewer options for floor plans. Due to the space occupied by the engine, the driver of Class C has less space in the driving cabin.
4. Limited Travel Options
With a travel trailer, you can always unhook your SUV or truck and leave your trailer behind to go shopping or sightseeing. Class C motorhomes do not have the option of unhooking and this significantly limits your travel options as they cannot fit into places that your truck or SUV can.
In Summary
Despite all the differences between Class A and Class C motorhomes, it is safe to say that both classes have a lot in common; however, the low-cost, easy-to-maintain Class C motorhome is a potential choice for many small to medium-sized families as it has almost all basic features of a Class A motorhome. In case you have a bigger budget and a big family you can always go for a more expensive and luxurious option of a Class A motorhome.
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