2015 International 30 vs 2015 Classic

[ZBoater]

In shopping for a new Airstream we've narrowed it down to a 30'. We really like the International and the Classic.

The differences we noted were the obvious ones. Real wood cabinets, Corian counter tops, power reclining bed. And an extra 1000 lbs dry weight that goes along with those. The GVWR of the International is 8800, while the Classic is 10,000.

I think the Classic has 2 AC units standard, while it would be an option in the International.

We are leaning towards a fully loaded International, which we are thinking will come in at 7000 lbs dry weight, which is just about the max I'd want to tow with my TV. (8000 lbs towing capacity).

What are the other differences between these two models besides the ones I was able to observe and noted above?

Thanks.

[Foiled Again]

Which international? The Signature or the Serenity? I like the recliner's option in the 30' international. My taste is more toward the Serenity - I just think the Signature is way too dark. The new Classic is the first one that ever really appealed to me, but the prior classics had oak or hickory - not ash stained to look like cherry. Really like the window coverings on the Classic - first ones that don't look like a coffin lining.

Frankly YOU are going to be the one living in it day after day. Don't set yourself up to yearn - if you're ready to consider spending that kind of money get the one you bond with! If your tow vehicle won't handle , well get a well used Ford Chevy or Dodge 1 ton. (Even a beater truck will look good pulling an Airstream).

BE HAPPY

[dkottum]

You've made quite a jump from a 25 to a 30. I wonder if your towing expectations can be met by the F150 Raptor, primarily stability. A ProPride or Hensley hitch and wheel/tires more suited to towing may help. Do some research on the truck and how it may be set up to tow a large trailer such as a 30. The experts on this sort of thing is Can-Am Airstream in London, Ontario. Call them and discuss this truck and trailer combo.

[ZBoater]

Yeah, the Raptor is non-negotiable, which is why I am more inclined towards the international. The wood cabinets and Corian are very nice. But keeping my Raptor is my priority, so saving 1000 lbs I can live with and be happy.

I'm just wondering what other differences I am missing besides the cabinets, the countertops, and the power bed. I know the classic has a nice power sofa in the lounge, but we prefer the recliner option. We are looking at the Signature. The Serenity doesn't do it for us. We like the darker tones.

Any other differences I'm missing?

[ZBoater]

Originally Posted by dkottum

You've made quite a jump from a 25 to a 30. I wonder if your towing expectations can be met by the F150 Raptor, primarily stability. A ProPride or Hensley hitch and wheel/tires more suited to towing may help. Do some research on the truck and how it may be set up to tow a large trailer such as a 30. The experts on this sort of thing is Can-Am Airstream in London, Ontario. Call them and discuss this truck and trailer combo.

Yup, thanks for the feedback. The Raptor can tow it fine. But the International gives me 1000 lbs cushion. So I'm wondering what other differences there are that I didn't see or weren't obvious to me when I looked at both of them.

[Firedog1]

power stabilizer jacks, and 16 inch tires and wheels on the Classic. also upgraded stereo.

[ZBoater]

Originally Posted by Firedog1

power stabilizer jacks, and 16 inch tires and wheels on the Classic. also upgraded stereo.

Interesting. I had not noticed those. Thanks!

[BAB]

I just took delivery of a '15 Classic last week. I had a 2012 28' Intl CCD (to which I added the 2d AC)...in a 30 I think it's mandatory. The differences between my Intl and my Classic are too numerous to mention, from the quality of the fixtures, lighting, use of stainless steel on outdoor access points, 16" Michelin's and 16" wheels, beautiful oven/cooktop combo, carpet, and most of all, the incredible look AND fit of the cabinetry. The integration of the window coverings and texture are first rate. I really liked the Intl, but I would put the Classic in a completely different sphere. IMHO there is no comparison.

[ZBoater]

Thanks for your post. Yes, I also did notice differences in the fixtures and window coverings. I figured there would be more difference, so your post is very helpful. Thank you!

[field & stream]

Did you notice the $25,000 difference in cost ?!??!

[ZBoater]

He he. Yes I did. Trying to understand it better.

[FreshAirStmr]

I have the same dilemma. We'll be purchasing a 30 this year and still don't know whether we'll go new or not. The 2015 Classic is very tempting, but I'm worried that the cabinets are too dark. Cherry isn't my favorite color either. I love all the luxury touches of the Classic, but in truth the Serenity or Signature is more my style.

[field & stream]

ZBoater -- thanks for having a sense of humor! Don't get me wrong, I love the new Classic. But as my college roommate used to say about everything economic: "that's a lot of beer and pizza".

[ZBoater]

I hear ya. We had to get over the "Airstream premium" price when we started looking. We didn't know any better. After a lot of shopping and looking and soul searching we understood. But I don't want to spend any money I don't have to. Which is the reason for my post. I like to learn and understand. I can then make an informed decision on whether it's worth it for me.

Understanding the differences between Airstream models is not easy. The Airstream marketing brochures don't really provide details. And many sales reps aren't very helpful at all. This forum has a wealth of information, and I sure appreciate you guys!

[Rocinante]

Here's our take: If you have more money than whatever, do the Land Yacht. If you want your Dad's Airstream, go for the classic. If you want something a bit more modern inside, go for an International. If you want a rear hatch and furniture that folds up so you can put more stuff inside while traveling, go for the EB. If you want to save a few bucks relative to the other trim lines and still enjoy a lovely AS experience, go for the FC.

Every trim line is wonderful for the right reasons - you just have to find the one that calls out to you, your lifestyle, and your wallet. You can't go wrong as long as you're buying an AS and you live close enough to a dealer to get warranty issues resolved without too much trouble.

[ZBoater]

That's a good explanation. Thank you. We looked long at the Eddie Bauer. That hatch idea is very intriguing. We are trying to apply our 15 years boating experience, but obviously not everything translates. We just didn't see ourselves sitting outside with the hatch open. Couldn't picture ourselves using it. But can't help but be fascinated by the possibilities.

[Rocinante]

We really wanted to fall in love with the EB. It's our understanding they have a nice screen that can be dropped down once the hatch is open, to keep the bugs out. Sounds wonderful! Unfortunately, we just didn't care for the EB upholstery and fold up furniture. It's a darn shame, really, because it would have been really cool. Tough decisions.

[dkottum]

We liked the Eddie Bauer as well, but not to haul stuff, just thought the hatch was neat and versatile. For use we would have taken out the folding seating and put in the recliner chairs we have in our FC. Didn't think the $10,000 dollar premium of EB over FC was justified by the hatch, and EB is a rear living room model which does not fit our travel needs.

Several things come into play when choosing a travel trailer and each traveler has his and her own needs. So, why ask us. Make a list of your particular needs for travel and camping and match a travel trailer or van or motor home to suit you. Then when you choose the trailer make darn sure the tow vehicle matches, and the hitch system is a good one and set up properly.

[Andrew T]

From a power perspective the 6.2 Litre in the Raptor won't notice the 1000 pounds of weight difference. We use that motor in 3/4 tons to tow 16,000 pound fifth wheels and it pretty much plays with them.

The Raptor's huge tires and long travel suspension in theory make it less stable on the road towing but it is better than the specs would suggest. I think the shock control helps quite a bit. Handling is going to be about the same with either Airstream. So what I am saying is take the towing difference out of your deliberations it is really not going to be a noticeable difference.

I think it really gets down to which unit you like better. You can add many of the Classic features to the Signature if there are a few you like. On other hand the Classic is gorgeous. Even the price difference is not as big a factor as it appears when you think of how long you can own an Airstream.

I hope this helps.

Andrew T

[Msmoto]

Having seen BAB's new Classic, rather heavily loaded with modifications already, I can attest to the extreme care JC took in producing a top quality product. The materials used, the craftsmanship, and the design are absolutely top rate.

Differences are enough to make me think I may have ordered a new Classic, but at the time I placed my order there was not a Classic to choose from. As to the upgrades from an International to the Classic, too many to enumerate here, but they make a lot of difference in the overall feeling in the trailer.

Are there any downsides? My personal preference would be to have the exact floor plan of my Serenity 30 RB, but with the outfitting of the Classic, including the front sofa with recliners. I prefer the extra storage besides the beds, and if done with the walnut, wow, this would be a stunning bedroom.

When BAB finishes all the modifications I may offer to shoot some photos of the interior for him. In the meantime, I am hustling off to do more modifications so as to bring some of the ambiance of the Classic into my Serenity. Window treatments are especially attractive with the valence.

But, we can all be grateful for the very nice trailers we are all so gifted to be able to use. Be well, happy trails....