Quote:
Originally Posted by jsb5717
Sorry to drag up an old thread but was just looking for this information. I used John's suggestion and created a spreadsheet based on current model offerings and MSRP. They are in order from most to least expensive. If that is an indicator of the order of quality then here it is.
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That's a good "first step" at determining cost per foot. Remember that when comparing fifth wheels to travel trailers, you've got to consider the extra costs associated with fifth wheels (more complex frame structure, etc).
Additionally, remember that "value", "cost", "quality" and "investment" are all different ways to calculate "quality"....
Keep in mind that as trailers get longer, the components in them must also get stronger (thicker frame, wider chassis rails, etc), so the bigger a trailer, the more it costs the manufacturer to buy the raw materials used to build it.
As an example, a 34' Montana might be built on an 8" frame, a 37' Montana might be built on a 10" frame and a 43' Montana might be built on a 12" DROP frame.... That would dramatically change the "frame costs" on trailers in the same line with very similar options on interior "what you see" construction.
So, consider the "whole trailer" not just the "price per foot".....
I've seen some "very expensive junk" and some "inexpensive, quality trailers"...