Life with 6

lifewith6 · 04-13-2007, 01:57 PM

Just bought a 1972 27' airstream overlander. In the process of buying a new car to fit a family of 6 and tow an airstream. Any advice on whats best and good price car for our family and travels. Thanks--Very excited to add our family touches on our new find.

overlander63 · 04-13-2007, 02:04 PM

Welcome to the forums.
Probably either a passenger van, or a Suburban with a 3rd row seat, would be good choices for you, either of them in a 3/4 ton configuration.

Silvertwinkie · 04-13-2007, 02:37 PM

We have a Suburban and it is great because there is lots of space for passengers, cargo and play area, if they are still that young.

Two nice things about the Burb vs the van:

Engine is more easily accessible and the other is 4x4 option. Some makes of vans don't have a real 4x4 system or even AWD.

**moosetags** · 04-13-2007, 02:42 PM

Welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you with us.

We pull our 25 footer with a 3/4 ton Suburban It has the juice to pull the Airstream even with six passengers on board.

Minnie's Mate · 04-13-2007, 03:38 PM

You might also look into the Ford Expedition EL. It is similar to the Suburban and you can get it with a rear suspension that is beefier. The 5.4L engine is rated for 9,000 LBS. The regular Expedition is rated at 9,200-9,400 LBS. Either is more than enough to tow your '72 Airstream. If you would prefer used, you might also consider a Ford Excursion. It was made up through the '06 model year and was available with an 8-cylinder or 10-cylinder gasoline engine or a V-8 Diesel engine. The main difference in the two would be economy of operation and comfort. The Expedition would equate to a 1/2 ton and the Excursion would equate to a 3/4 ton. Of course I am partial to Fords, but I'm also offering options beyond the Chevy line up. Oh yes, both are 8 passenger vehicles. If you are interested in a new Ford, let me know and I can hook you up with a great dealer that will deliver one to your drive way at a great price and no hassle deal.

drag'nwagon · 04-13-2007, 04:48 PM

We use a 2006 Express (full size) chevy van to pull our 31'r. We purposely bought a window van because we have 3 kids and 2 dogs. There is enough room for 8 plus everyones gear and the trailor. I love the van lot's of power and good authority behind the wheel. I believe all total we are about 52' and close to 12K lbs. There is lot more room for everybody plus stuff in the van vs the suburban.

Dave

lifewith6 · 04-14-2007, 04:23 PM

Thank You Everyone For All Your Help For A New Car. We Are Ready To Shop And Look. We Are Excited To Travel With The Kids And Build Some Great Memories. I Am New At All This Posting. So Thanks For Making Me Feel Welcomed. --kim

jgouras · 04-14-2007, 05:54 PM

we also travel with six. usually plus two friends so that makes eight. we used to tow with a suburban. switched to a diesel excursion '03 with the 7.3liter. all i can say is it is a dream to tow with. its only down side is parking when we are not towing. you can find some really good deals on these models just make sure it was maintaned well.