Another size question

I agree that the 100bhp engine was fitted to keep the price down. Progress was leisurely but for some, this was acceptable. However, driving something which wasn't overly keen on keeping up with traffic many years ago is going to feel pretty strange to someone who hasn't driven a motorhome but tends to drive a modern motorcar.

I would be less worried about the engine and more worried as to whether I could live with the limited safety features including how quickly it stopped.

If its dry, in good condition, and the layout you want, then if you can accept the compromises on safety and performance, go for it. Just allow more time to get to your destination, be defensive in your driving style, and learn to live with the van.

I was going to say that 100bhp should be adequate.  That's what my van has (Ford Puma diesel engine), and it's pretty nippy.  However, I've got a Romahome R30 (see avatar) which is quite a bit smaller than a Bessacar E425, so perhaps you will find it a bit under-powered.

Great comments everyone.

I think we knew that it would be underpowered but having searched for so long for the 'right' motorhome for us layout wise, we perhaps had the rose coloured specs on. 

There's a MH for sale just up the road from us with the same engine so trying to persuade Mr Natasha2 to go on a test drive.  We have a big hill nearby too so it would be a good test. 

Realistically though I think our search continues but thank you for all the good advice.  

What a good forum this Is

Dare I suggest that layout and condition are far more important than engine size!

Whether it's motorhomes or tow cars nearly everybody has a 'thing' about horse power.

I used to rally and race and even then the most horse power often didn't win

I'd better shut up!

N2,  if  you  are  in  the  East  Of  Cheshire  a  turn  or  two  from  Macclesfield  via  Buxton  to  Congleton  &  back  should  give  you  all  the  info  on  "pulling  power"  you  need  !

Brian  A B M

Natasha, is the overcab a nice to have or is it part of the must haves, for extra berths or storage?

its just that, more recently, overcabs have drifted away, in favour of a drop down bed over the lounge to provide additional berths.

i can see one on Autotrader in Reading at a shade under £30k, this looks to have the 2.3 130 engine, on the heavy chassis.

Hi Bolero Boy

Yes the overcab is an essential for storage.  

Have looked a euro lounge/garage options but don't find the lounge comfortable. 

Todays thoughts are for autotrail tribute 625 or imala 625 which would give us a caravan type lounge and storage in a shortish van. Obviously the budget would be blown apart!! 

Go on ,make the swap , you won't look back