Shopping for a Pre-Owned Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe (1995-2002) Vehicles
Once a famed address for motorhome enthusiasts, 59 Old Wareham Road, Poole, has been home to several innovative and popular motorhome manufacturers, including Autohomes. The site housed Autohomes' manufacturing facility until the company faced financial difficulties in the early 1990s. Elddis, one of the leading motorhome brands, acquired the Autohomes name and manufacturing rights, relocating production to their Delves Lane premises in Consett, Co Durham.
After purchasing in-production Autohomes models, Elddis made a controversial move by launching a new line-up, the 'W' range, in direct competition with their Autoquest series. The range saw initial success, with two variants unveiled shortly after the launch of the redesigned X/44 Peugeot Boxer. Within months, the range expanded to six motorhome layouts across three wheelbases.
Wildwind and Windfall, designed using the short wheelbase derivative with an extended length of 5.38m/17' 8", were among the popular offerings. Both models featured seating arrangements specifically designed for comfortable travel and sleeping accommodations.
Shoppers could choose between Wayfinder, Wanderer, and Wayfarer, all mid-sized models featuring rear lounges, depending on their preference. The most popular layout of the time could be found in the Wayfarer, with a forward lounge-diner combining an offside double Pullman dinette and a nearside three-seat inward-facing settee.
The range-topping Windward, with a five-berth configuration, was 6.73m/22' 1" long and offered a range of amenities. The lineup received significant updates in the new millennium, adopting the 'Equipe' moniker and undergoing exterior and interior renovations.
Buying a used Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe
Potential buyers should keep a few factors in mind when considering a used Autohomes motorhome.
Base Vehicle
When considering purchasing one of these vans, it's essential to ensure that the base vehicle has been well-maintained. Checking the engine, engine drive belts, and transmissions for any signs of repair or wear is crucial.
If the vehicle features a petrol engine with an LPG conversion, ensure that the engine's gas tank and ancillaries have passed a safety test. In addition, checking the motorhome tyres to ensure they are safe and not past their expiration date is advisable.
Conversion
A comprehensive habitation service and safety check should be carried out before buying any used motorhome. Particular attention should be paid to signs of water ingress, a common issue in older motorhomes.
Originally sparse in terms of included features, the following items were additional costs for the base model: carpets, blinds and flyscreens, oven, Fanmaster (blown-air heat distribution), and leisure battery. Any potential purchaser should confirm whether these features have been added by previous owners.
Price Range
The price range for used Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe motorhomes varies, with prices falling between £10,000 and £20,000. A fully loaded 1.9TD Wayfarer with a slightly altered interior is available for £14,995 and comes with a 12-month warranty, offering a good starting point for prospective buyers.
Alternatives to Consider
For those considering alternatives, Elddis Autoquest, Swift Sundance, and 2004 onwards Compass Avantgarde motorhomes are worth considering.
- Before buying a used Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe motorhome, it's vital to check the condition of the base vehicle, particularly the engine, engine drive belts, transmissions, and motorhome tyres.
- If the base vehicle has a petrol engine with an LPG conversion, ensure that the engine's gas tank and ancillaries have passed a safety test.
- A comprehensive habitation service and safety check should be conducted before purchasing, paying close attention to signs of water ingress, a common issue in older motorhomes.
- Originally, certain features like carpets, blinds and flyscreens, oven, Fanmaster, and leisure battery were optional extras for the base model; potential buyers should confirm if these features have been added by previous owners.
- The price range for used Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe motorhomes can vary between £10,000 and £20,000, with a fully loaded 1.9TD Wayfarer available for £14,995 and offering a 12-month warranty.
- For those looking for alternatives, Elddis Autoquest, Swift Sundance, and post-2004 Compass Avantgarde motorhomes are worth considering.
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