Airstream Argosy 1971

[bryantw333]

is the argosy really an airstream i am looking at one n he wants 5000. supposed to have new toilet, tires, floor n tow package. looks ok a few rust spots but its painted. any help appreciated.

[azflycaster]

Yes, the Argosy was a line of painted Airstream trailers.

[overlander64]

Greetings bryantw!

Welcome to the Forums!

Originally Posted by bryantw333

is the argosy really an airstream i am looking at one n he wants 5000. supposed to have new toilet, tires, floor n tow package. looks ok a few rust spots but its painted. any help appreciated.

The Argosy (First Generation) was introduced in 1971 as a 1972 model and was Airstream's entry into the mid-priced travel trailer field. The basic chassis and body structure is identical to Airstream's semi-monocoque. The two biggest differences are that the external front and rear domes on the Argosy are galvanized steel rather than the aluminum used in Airstream, and the Argosy coaches are painted.

When compared to an Airstream, the Argosy typically had a lower level of standard equipment. With few exceptions, the Argosy could optionally be quipped with most features of its Airstream parent. The Argosy also had at least one feature that Airstream didn't - - the deep-wrap wing windows on either side of the front window. The Argosy served as something of an experimental platform for Airstream where features were tested before making it into the Airstream lineup or being dropped - - some of these included:

• The deep-wrap wing windows flanking the front window.
• Narrower width trailer with eye toward fuel economy (7' compared to the normal 7' 8") - - this was the Argosy Minuet series (1977-1979).
• The motorhome made its first appearance in the Argosy line.
• Rear bedroom (28' to 31') with rear window having flanking deep-wrap wing windows.
• Composite aluminum floors in some 6.0 and 6.7 Metre Minuet coaches.

While not all RVers recognize the Argosy, it is considered to be an Airstream in every way. Since 1991 (?), the Argosy has been eligible for participation in WBCCI (Wally Byam Caravan Club International). With few exceptions an Argosy owner is welcomed to WBCCI events - - there are still a few WBCCI members out there who remember the days when Argosy (and for that fact Motorhomes) was not permitted in the club - - fortunately, this group is in a small minority. You will definitely be welcomed into the Vintage Airstream Club with an Argosy.

The two big influences on value of an Argosy travel trailer are its condition and its size. Coaches in very good condition always demand a premium, and the coachs below 24' also tend to command higher prices.

You may find the Price vs. Condition article to be helpful in evaluating the coach. You may also want to check-out the link on the Forums homepage for Volunteer Inspectors - - one may be located near the trailer you are considering and could help you inspect the trailer.

Good luck with your investigation!

Kevin

[bobfowler]

What size is it?

[Jwcberk]

Hi Bryantw333,
Did you end up buying the Argosy 24?

[TG Twinkie]

It is thought that the Argosy was a step below A$'s when it comes to the amenities. They were lower priced than a similar sized A$. When it comes to the appliances and items like the furnace and water heater. The same equipment was installed in the Argosy. The cabinet work may be of a more plain design, but many A$'s had the same cabinetry. The Argosy was one of the first to come with a grey water tank in '74. As was the case with A$'s.
By painting the trailer and using one piece fiberglass or steel endcaps A$ could use aluminum with surface defects (not polish able) and with lower assembly cost due to one piece end caps could sell the trailers at a lower cost when compared to the A$.