Are you looking to invest in a recreational vehicle this year? You’ve probably started checking out some prominent brands, such as Coachman, Winnebago, and Forest River.
After all, they’ve been making high-performance coaches for years, as shown by their diverse catalogs. It would be easier to find the make and model that suits your budget because they offer almost everything—from camper vans to double-axle trailers.
But if you’re looking for a little bit of luxury on top of practical features, consider Newmar and Tiffin.
They manufacture some of the biggest Class A motorhomes, and they also have something for the minimalist adventurers who prefer smaller but premium-grade campers.
There’s nothing more thrilling than crossing cities and boonies in style while still getting all the conveniences of a function-focused coach. Unlike most brands, these two offer extra space and fire powerful.
In this article, you’ll learn the standard features of Newmar and Tiffin RVs. Then, you can decide which one makes a better investment.
Let’s start with their capacities. I’m sure you’d love to know how much space you’ll get and how long your water supply can last between trips.
Newmar vs Tiffin: Talking About The Most Important Differences
| Size | Newmar | Tiffin |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 27 to 44 ft | 33.17 to 45 ft |
| Overall Width | 8.46 ft | 7.92 to 8.42 ft |
| Overall Height | 12.33 to 13.33 ft | 11.67 to 13.25 ft |
| Interior Width | 7.95 ft | 6.5 to 6.92 ft |
| Interior Height | 6.67 to 7.13 ft | 7.58 to 8 ft |
| Tank Capacity | ||
| Graywater | 60 to 80 gallons | 50 to 100 gallons |
| Sewage | 40 to 60 gallons | 33 to 55 gallons |
| Clean Water | 75 to 105 gallons | 70 to 100 gallons |
You may notice that some of the data are in ranges. That’s because each brand presents models of different sizes and capacities.
The first of each pair of number represents the minimum dimension or weight. Yet, when it comes to their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), both brands offer about 55,000 lbs. Let’s find out how Newmar and Tiffin differ in other aspects.
Makes and Models
RVs come in different types: fifth wheels, toy haulers, lightweight trailers, class A and C motorhomes, and class B camper vans.
Famous brands sell almost all types but put emphasis on lightweight trailers and campers to cater to the middle and working classes.
On the other hand, Newmar is known for its class A and class C coaches. They currently don’t have towable trailers and Class B camper vans in their inventory. So this might not be the brand for you if you’re looking for a smaller motorhome.
Tiffin is the same, although it has the Cahaba, a Class B camper van, the smallest RV in its product line.
Chassis, Engine, and Drivetrain
The weight you’ll have to deal with when driving an RV is no joke. The vehicle alone already weighs about 5 tons. That increases dramatically as you load up the water tank and put in all your supplies and equipment.
That’s why you need solid firepower to survive each journey. The chassis must also be strong and stable to hold up the RV’s entire body.
Fortunately, Newmar and Tiffin did an excellent job choosing the correct assembly and technology for all their products.
For instance, Newmar’s flagship model—the 2023 King Aire—is equipped with a 605-horsepower Cummins® X15 diesel engine, which can yield up to 2050 lb-ft torque.
This monster is paired with an OnGuard™ Collision Mitigation Adaptive Cruise System integrated into the Spartan chassis, which keeps the RV at a 3.6-second safe distance behind the vehicle in front.
Tiffin’s largest creation so far—the Zephyr—also uses the same diesel engine and transmission system (Allison® 4000 MH 6-speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter).
Instead of Spartan, however, it clasps onto a PowerGlide® Rear Engine Diesel Chassis, which is just as robust and well suited for the X15.
Exterior Finish
You’d want your RV to look gorgeous on the outside. That’s why you’re eyeing a Newmar or Tiffin. If you line up all the star RV models from all brands, you’ll see King Aire and Zephyr stand out, thanks to their first-rate exteriors.
Newmar’s sleek cladding that wears a Full-Paint Masterpiece Finish™ combined with a one-piece bonded windshield is a visual stunner.
The older models may not have some premium features, but they are nothing short of opulent. The convex exterior chrome mirrors with remote-controlled defrost, turn signals, and side view cameras give off a high-end feel you wouldn’t get from other RVs.
On the other hand, Tiffin’s forerunner boasts full-body exterior paint with four layers of clear coat. That protective coating can last for years with proper maintenance.
In addition, the bonded dual-pane windows are thick enough to keep outside elements from messing with your HVAC. On the outside, this big boy looks like a proper luxury bus that can take you from New York to Los Angeles.
A Hoard of Other Features
You’d be surprised by just how much attention to detail these two brands put into designing their vehicles. It’s no wonder both have kept top spots in most reviews and lists of favorite brands for many years.
However, it’s fair to mention that Newmar sets itself apart by building the first class of wheelchair-accessible coaches, which is a fantastic accomplishment.
And Tiffin is leading the way in innovations centered on improving their RVs’ energy efficiency, saving owners thousands of dollars in the long run.
Think Long-Term
Unless you’re okay with replacing your RV every five years or so, it pays to invest in a high-grade one, just like what Newmar and Tiffin offer. Now you know more about these two brands and their perks.
It’s time to factor in other things, like your preferred design, whether a family member is using a wheelchair, or how many are going with you on each journey.
Decide based on your specific needs rather than on what most people prefer. Always think long-term. If you go with the hype when making a massive investment like an RV, you’ll end up disliking your purchase after several years when a new model comes out. Pick according to your preference.
Book a consultation with experts from either brand and ask as many questions as possible, such as what warranties come with the purchase, where you can take the RV for servicing, available financing, etc.
It doesn’t hurt to be inquisitive, especially when it comes to big purchases like this.
