2014 Mercedes-Benz Airstream Interstate 3500 EXT
Who here isn't already an Airstream fan? Who hasn't seen one of those perflectly reflecting silver aerotubes rolling down the highway on the way to destinations you could only aspire to? Playing at a premium works well with one of America's favorite pastimes - getting away from it all. If there was ever a Lifestyle Poster Child, Airstream was on it.
So you finally make it to the Dream Camping level in life: time to review the options. First things first - tho pull-trailer coaches are beauty on wheels but they don't roll anywhere by themselves. Now you need a truck that costs just as much to pull it. That's probably not an issue with anyone able to buy an Airstream. But let's face it, that's a lot of infrastructure and extra effort administering. What if you could put a motor and steering on your trailer for one step motoring?
We saw our first Airstream Interstate at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show - downstairs in the dark Aftermarket Hall. Our jaws dropped, eyes widened, and feet moved in that direction without asking. What a great idea - made it a goal on the spot! The Airstream brand and style was infused in and around the body of the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van - surely a match made in heaven. MB Sprinters quickly carved a huge stake in the new big van market with excellent quality vehicles that drive like a car.
The biggest kicker? Up to 19 miles to gallon of diesel fuel. [Nineteen]. One Nine. While fuel efficiency might not be first care from a wealthyish lifestyle investor, we can say this makes a big difference in how you use the craft. In a past life we restored a classic Winnebago with a bullet proof 454 CID engine that eked out 12 MPG. To improve, we spent $3500 to install a Banks Power Pack on a promised 20% gain on fuel mileage. It dropped from 12 to 8, then the cost of fuel tripled. Every 4 hours of driving cost $150 - 250 depending on where you ran out. The Mercedes-Benz turbo-diesel is a champ - runs 5-6 hours for under $100. Set the cruise and drive baby, drive.
After 23,000 miles of road proofing, the van has held up very well in this example. It worked perfectly for us as a mobile production studio, long distance hauler, and kiddie playhouse. Both MB and Airstream should be commended for quality of build resulting in years of no creaks, rattles or groans. Roads can shake vehicles to bits - this feels like driving a fluffy pillow. Feel for yourself - it's your turn!
Contact randy@specialcarstore.com for details.