Are Class B RVs A Good Investment? (Explained)

Out of the many motorhome options in recent years, more and more people have been choosing a Class B RV.

These RVs have numerous attractive qualities that make them a popular choice, but that doesn’t mean they are suitable for everyone.

Have you recently been debating purchasing a Class B RV, but you’re unsure if it’s the best idea?

Our article guide will discuss everything you need to know to decide if buying a Class B RV is a good investment and the right decision:

Here’s Why Class B RVs are a Good Investment:

Class B RVs are great for small groups of campers that don’t need as many amenities. They are easier to drive and fit in more places. A Class B is also a good investment if you want an RV with one of the best depreciation rates among RVs, only surpassed by a Class C.

How Well Do Class B RVs Hold Their Value?

As we mentioned previously, Class B RVs have one of the lowest depreciation rates, only surpassed by Class C, which loses about 26% of its value after three years.

These motorhomes depreciate at a rate of about 33% over three years which is better than class A RVs which depreciate at around 43%, fifth wheels at 38%, travel trailers at 40%, and pop-up campers at 38% after three years.

These depreciation rates show that Class B is a good investment because it has a higher resale rate if you decide to trade yours in for a newer model or different type of motorhome.

How Long Do Class B RVs Last?

A few factors to consider affect how long this motorhome lasts an owner.

According to RVShare.com, it’s believed that a Class B motorhome will last approximately 200,000 miles or 20+ years from the date of purchase if its owners look after it.

However, one that has been driven in worse conditions, and is improperly maintained, will not last as long.

Can Buying A Class B RV Even Be Considered An Investment?

Class B motorhomes last decades and are incredibly convenient for smaller families and solo travelers.

If this is the traveling you want to undertake, you can consider Class B RVs as a good investment.

However, with limited sleeping accommodations, smaller water holding tanks, and appliances, Class Bs are not suitable for those RVers who want to travel with more than four people or frequently entertain.

Class Bs are also not a suitable van life motorhome unless you’re comfortable with fewer features and amenities and smaller maneuverable interior space, which many couples are fine with.

What Brands In Class B RVs Hold Their Value Best?

Some Class B RV brands hold their value better than others.

Below we have briefly spoken a bit about these brands to help you decide if you would be interested in owning an RV from one of them:

Winnebago:

Since the 1950s, Winnebago has manufactured quality RVs that enthusiasts can trust.

This brand has earned a reputation for creating some of the best and most technologically advanced Class B motorhomes.

Unlike other Class B manufacturers, Winnebago produces Class Bs in various floorplans to ensure customers can choose a model that suits their needs.

This brand’s motorhomes also have superb resale values because they are constructed to last.

Airstream:

One of the oldest and most respected Class B manufacturers is Airstream.

They have been producing motorhomes since before World War Two. Airstream’s Class Bs are believed to last a lifetime because they use premium quality materials and high-quality appliances and furnishing.

That’s Airstream has become synonymous with luxury and class. Additionally, they are also equipped with safety features and have high-performance ratings.

Coachmen:

Another brand you need to consider that manufactures premium quality Class B motorhomes is Coachmen, a division of Forest River.

Since the 1960s, Coachmen has been a leader in the RV industry because they are committed to matching motorhomes to people’s needs and desires.

Their Class B range is immensely popular because of its impressive features and amenities.

Do Newer Or Used Class B’s Hold Their Value Better?

Depending on the model, the year they made it, and by whom, different RVs will hold their value better than others.

Some used vintage RVs with outdated features hold their value well enough to be sold for a significant sum due to their novelty or rarity.

Essentially, newer Class Bs hold their value better because they are equipped with more modern features like advanced safety systems and essential amenities like kitchenettes and bathrooms.

The more modern a Class B RV is, the more likely it will have a better resale value.

What Are The Most Reliable Class B Models?

If you’re searching for a reliable RV model that has held its value well and don’t want to spend a considerably large sum of money on a brand new motorhome, you will likely want to consider the models below.

We have gone into brief detail about these reliable Class Bs so that you have an idea of what to expect.

We have also included the approximate price you should expect to pay for one of these older but still relatively new Class Bs:

2017 Coachmen Galleria 24Q

Those with a budget of around $100,000 should consider purchasing a used 2017 Coachmen Galleria 24Q.

These models have an estimated price of $102,000 and have the capability to sleep up to three people. One of the reasons why this RV model is reliable is because it has a dependable engine chassis.

The 2017 Coachmen Galleria 24Q has a gross vehicle weight rating of 11,030 pounds, an overall length of 24 feet and 2 inches, an exterior height of 9 feet and 7 inches, and an impressive interior height of 6 feet and 3 inches.

This Class B has a 30-gallon freshwater tank, a 22-gallon grey water tank, and a 12-gallon black water tank.

As we mentioned earlier, this model has a reliable chassis and engine. It is equipped with a 3500 Mercedez Benz Sprinter chassis and a Mercedes Benz V6 3.0 liter engine that can produce a horsepower rating of 188 and a torque rating of 325 pounds per foot.

The Coachmen Galleria 24Q has exterior floodlights, an automatic aircon and heater, and a 13-foot long exterior awning.

Some of the notable features and amenities in this Class B motorhome include a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, a compact electric and propane refrigerator, a microwave, and a sink.

There is also a fully equipped bathroom with a shower, sink, toilet, and a bathroom mirror.

Moreover, this motorhome has two LED televisions, a DVD player, a retractable roof antenna, and a surround sound system.

2016 Airstream Interstate 24 Lounge EXT

Are you seeking a spacious Class B RV that can sleep up to two people? You may want to consider buying a 2016 Airstream Interstate 24 Lounge EXT.

Although the estimated average price for this model year is slightly more expensive at $135,000, you will receive many impressive features.

The 2016 Airstream Interstate 24 Lounge EXT has a gross vehicle weight rating of 11,030 pounds, an overall length of 24 feet and one inch, an exterior height of 9 feet and 6 inches, and a lofty interior height of 6 feet and 2 inches.

This model is equipped with a 32-gallon freshwater tank, a 27-gallon grey water tank, and a 13-gallon black water tank.

The engine on this model is not as powerful as comparable models, but it has more than enough power to take you on every adventure you plan.

This Class B has a reliable Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis and features a Mercedes Benz 2.1 liter turbocharged diesel engine that can produce a horsepower rating of 161 and a torque rating of 265 pounds per foot.

Additionally, the 2016 Airstream 24 Interstate Lounge EXT has a 13,500 BTU air conditioner, a 16,000 BTU furnace, a 13-foot long awning, and an incredibly modern interior design.

A convenient, centrally located kitchen features a two-burner stove with an overhead fan, a compact refrigerator, a kitchen sink, and plenty of countertop space.

Moreover, this model also has a fully equipped bathroom, an electric or propane water heater, interior speakers, two televisions, a radio, and a comfortable convertible sofa bed.

Citations:

How Many Miles Do Class B RVs Last?

An RV Depreciation Guide

Motorhomes With The Best Resale Value