We really like the low profile cab |
Since we started motorhoming in 2009, we have had the same van, a left hand drive 1997 Hymer Camp, which we bought from Ikonik Campers near Hull. That van has been an absolute legend for us as we covered somewhere around 45,000 miles in it, rarely having to spend anything on it apart from the usual (tyres, batteries etc). We have only really changed vans now as we wanted something newer and with lower miles for the business.
Wendy actually cried as Jon and family (the new owners) took it off our drive last weekend. However, the tears were short-lived as we were only six days with a motorhome-shaped hole on our drive. We bought the new van privately off eBay from a lovely couple in Wakefield.
The van is a Burstner T625 Harmony. The best advice we were given when we started was to 'go German' and this seemed to have served us well. The build quality is on a par with the Hymer and we particularly like the layout of this one. It has captain's chairs up front, which we did not have before, which give you a lot more room and have the effect of moving the living area a metre forwards. In addition there are another four seats, two behind the table and two perpendicular.
Lots of space even with a fixed bed |
Behind that you have the L-shaped kitchen that Burstner seem to have on most of their models. This gives lots of preparation area and means that whoever isn't cooking can move around the van without getting in the chef's way. This model also has a full-sized fridge and a proper oven. We made do with a microwave for four years, but are looking forward to being able to cook properly.
Behind that is a French fixed bed and a toilet with separate shower area. We are not sure about the bed yet as we will have to see how we get on with the cut-away at the end of it. The shower room will be a treat as it means we can both be in the bathroom at the same time.
On the mechanical and technical side, the van is fully loaded. It's a Fiat 2.8 diesel, which has an excellent reputation. We had done 115,000 miles on our old 2.5TDi and that still had tens of thousands of miles left in it. This engine is bigger and smoother and has only just done 50,000 miles.
Right hand drive might take some getting used to |
On the back we have a motorcycle rack in addition to the bike rack, so we are now in the market for a 125cc scooter, which will give us a bit more flexibility when we are on-site and don't fancy taking the van out or cycling.
Overall we are very happy with the van. Burstner do seem to put a bit more effort into the design, layout and styling of their vans compared to Hymers of a similar age. Obviously time will tell as to whether the Burstner proves to be as lovable a van as our old Hymer. First impressions though are really good and we just can't wait to get it across the channel.
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