"JohnH" wrote in message
...
On Wed, 12 Jul 2006 16:33:46 -0400, "Eisboch" wrote:



Tell me more about the Dodge Sprinter. I've been thinking of a small RV
for
when the wife retires next year. Is it pretty liveable for three or four
week trips? Mileage? Maintenance problems (the old Dodge bugaboo)?


Well, first of all, it's only "badged" as a Dodge. Mercedes makes them for
themselves, Dodge and Freightliner.
It's small as RV's go, but has all the basics ... refrig, microwave,
stovetop (propane), bathroom, shower, etc.
It even has a small, 2.5kw propane fueled generator. Ours is set up with a
power couch that folds out and creates either one, almost kingsize bed or
two twins.

Driving it is a breeze ... Mrs.E. loves driving it and has no problems. The
little diesel isn't a powerhouse (154 hp), but has no problem accelerating
and holding 70-75 mph uphill. It's probably the quietest diesel I've ever
heard - you really can't tell it's a diesel. The manufacturer claims 20-22
mpg - I've never checked, but I suspect it's in that neighborhood.

As far as living in it for three or four weeks at a time ... I couldn't,
because I am not into camping. For me it's ok for a weekend trip, but after
that it's hotel time or home. For those that like camping, it might be ok
because they typically spend most of the time outside and the RV is a place
to sleep, store food and use the head. It does have an awning, and all
that.

Finally ... many RV builders are building units on the Sprinter, Mercedes
and Freightliner chassis. Like boats, the quality, fit/finish and type of
components (TV, microwave, etc.) vary from builder to builder as do the
prices.
Best to look at several.

We've had several RVs ranging from a 37 foot Class A motorhome, a 37 foot
fifth wheel trailer and a smaller Class C camper. For us, the Sprinter does
everything the others did, just in a smaller way and is much, much more
relaxing to drive.

Eisboch