International vs Sport 16'

[pgg61]

MY wife and I are considering a 16' Bambi. We like the looks of the older International versions of the 16' Bambi but are wondering what are some of the differences between those and the newer Sport.

Also, not that keen on the lighter interior color scheme on the recent Sport Bambis but have seen a few of the 2014-2015s that have the darker wood interiors.

Thanks for any responses.

[GMFL]

The international is definitely going to be a higher trim package. You will have solid surface countertops versus Formica. Overall the finish will be nicer than in the sports I also believe the ultra leather is not available in the sport package there for the sport would have cloth interior.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Go over to a dealer and spend some time in the various < 20' long bambi models. There are several of them. Trim levels vary quite a bit. Price also varies. There's absolutely nothing wrong with getting a 16'. I would only do it *after* looking at all the options. In our case, sitting in this and that for most of a day was part of the sorting process.

One issue you will run into if shopping for a new one: The model lineup has change for 2018. Some of the shorter versions are not in the current lineup. You may have to move fast to find the remaining 2017's.

Bob

[MsTara]

When I bought my 2017 16' sport I had the exact same dilemma you are discussing. I LOVE the 2008 - 2012 International Serenity, DWR, and the Ocean model.

The wrap windows on both sides
The higher quality tables/sinks
The additional styling

I would have bought a 2012 International Serenity in a heartbeat if I could have found one for sale.

What I also found out:

The tongue weight are higher on these models (this could have an impact on your tow vehicle)
The 2008 - 2010 had MAJOR leak issues. I never found details on 2011/2012 so it may have the same issues, just didn't read about them

If you find one of these models that Isn't or Hasn't had a leak you will pay about 45k for one. The ones who have had leaks are still going for between 34k - 40k.

Please note that I personally did not like the dark interior when I went inside. It looked/felt very fake looking. But your mileage may vary.

Tara

[WhereStream]

Our Sport 16 (2016 model) is very International-ish inside ...

I think Airstream trimmed down its various model options (and continues to do so, thus the disappearance of the 19-foot International for 2018) and retained much of the popular International features in the Sport for the smallest Airstream.

It has, for example, nice Oyster leather cushions ... love those.

[pgg61]

My wife and I took some good advice here and went to our local airstream dealer for the afternoon and checked out everything they had. We confirmed the 22'+ ones were just more than we need, at least at this time, we felt we didn't need the extra living and couch space in some of the larger models. We loved the layout of the Flying Cloud 20FB with the sectioned off bed and the kitchen space at the back. This seems like a perfect layout, especially for someone who likes to cook. If we ever want a little bigger model this would probably be the way we'd go.

We did love the Bambi Sport 16', felt it's the perfect size for us at the moment. Decided we would take our time and keep an eye out for a model locally because we felt there's just too much uncertainty and risk for us trying to buy a used camper across country.

Well, got home and a 2013 16' Sport in great condition popped up nearby. Went and looked at it and bought it! Super excited!

Thanks for the helpful feedback.

[MsTara]

Congratulations!!!!

Originally Posted by pgg61

Well, got home and a 2013 16' Sport in great condition popped up nearby. Went and looked at it and bought it! Super excited!

Thanks for the helpful feedback.