Cool, vintage RVs are still out there

Vintage RV finds have been seen on the highways, lovingly restored for more travel to enjoy. Some of we RV folks are intrigued by the unique, the unusual, yet practical aspects of owning an older cool coach.

Russ and Lori will share on three of these awesome motorhome models. We chose these, as they are still able to be found for sale.

It takes a special owner to want one of these vintage RV coaches. These rigs don’t have all of the bells and whistles of new coaches, which actually is a part of the mystique. Fixed up and a nice shine, people will come up to admire your vintage coach and ask questions or just admire your restored ride. As for dollars spent, we have seen a good FMC for $23,000. Invest another $5,000 for brand new tires, brakes, transmission service, and major tune-up, $28,000 will get you there. The FMC is getting a bit harder to find, but worth the search. A GMC can be had for less money, and a Cortez, even less. Insurance can be less expensive, as would annual DMV fees.

Remember, value is relative. Prices stated are approximately what you can find one for. Be diligent in your search on trusted sites where RVs are sold, and be prepared for a quick sale on a great unit. Never fall for a scam. Way too good usually means just that. Sorry, but you must be careful.

Regardless of what you purchase in an RV of this vintage, start with new tires, figure it in the budget. Check everything, and have a trusted expert go through it.

Let’s start with the Cortez. NASA used a Cortez to get astronauts to the launch pad in the day. The Cortez was a small motorhome, easy to drive around and a blast if you had the one with a manual 4 speed transmission. Watch for power choices, depending on the year of manufacture. Cortez first came out with a Chrysler Slant-6 engine. A Ford 302 V-8 replaced the underpowered 6 cylinder engine in 1969.

In 1971, they put a huge Oldsmobile front wheel drive Toronado 455 and GM 3 speed transmission. Buy that one if you can find it. One must enjoy gas stations though if you choose the 455. The 302 is actually a good choice, but be prepared for 2nd gear climbs up grades at 35 mph. The Cortez has an all-steel body. Make sure there are no rust issues if seeking one out. You can find a good running one for about $15,000. Vincent Price drove one of these. We would get one just because of that.

Next, we have the GMC motorhome. These coaches were crazy comfortable and had an excellent ride. It is estimated that thousands of these rigs are still registered and in service. Two models were built, the 26 foot and the 23 foot. Most manufactured, were the 26 foot model. Check out why these sold. They were front wheel drive, and powered by a 455 cubic inch engine and three speed automatic transmissions. Later units had the 403 cubic inch engine. Twin axels in the rear supported a fantastic ride. With no drive train powering the rear wheels, rear suspension is not messing with living space. They rode nice and low, yet appropriate for RV use. Airbag suspension could be manually controlled. Yes, airbag suspension.

Expect to pay a price for a pristine one, but a good one can be found for around $24,000.

How about a Food Machine Corporation RV? Well, that is what you would be getting in an amazing FMC Motorhome. FMC expanded into several areas of interest. We post this unit for interest sake, as these are rapidly becoming extremely popular to find and restore. There is just something cool about them. These were really expensive for the day.

At about $30,000-60,000 out the door, you could buy a nice house for that in 1972. Owners such as Mario Andretti, Carol Burnett, and Clint Eastwood, created a broad base of buyers. The 1973 29-foot model had full wheel independent suspension and a 440 cubic inch Chrysler engine. At less than 9 feet high, this was a sweet riding, smooth RV.

What is the draw, the interest? Well, an RV is as individual as you are. Bringing an older unit back to life gives an RV owner pride, as well as appreciation from other RV enthusiasts. Creative paint designs have these coaches looking showroom fresh.

Whatever your ride is, enjoy it. Many of our destinations and adventures are yet to be known. Travel fun, travel safe, so Let’s Get Rollin’.

To contact Russ and Lori, email them at Russ.Lori.Rollin@gmail.com