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Vintage motorhomes are quickly becoming the go-to choice for those who want to experience life on the open road with a unique style.
Looking for a classic piece of memorabilia or a brand-new model with a retro flare. There’s something special about these vehicles that can take you back in time.
Here, we’ll discuss what exactly makes up a vintage motorhome. We’ll explore some amazing examples, and share our insights on pricing so you can start your journey down memory lane.
What Is a Vintage Motorhome?
A vintage motorhome is an older RV that has withstood the test of time with historical and nostalgic appeal.
There’s really no definitive guideline for what makes a motorhome vintage. However, most people would say that it would have to be more than 20 years old at a minimum.
These vehicles typically feature classic styles and aesthetics reminiscent of bygone eras. That includes polished wood accents, ornate curved cabinets, and shiny or artistically angled bodies.
Don’t have access to a classic piece of history? There are plenty of brands offering newly made RV models with a vintage vibe.
These retro-styled motorhomes cast the vintage vibe. But, they’ll have modern amenities and unique features that weren’t possible in the past.
How Do You Identify a Vintage Motorhome?
Identifying a vintage motorhome is a lot like a game of I-Spy. There are many subtle differences in shape and design.
Generally speaking, classic motorhomes will have recognizable features. That includes round edges, wood accents, and other time-stamped features that harken back to the glory days of road-tripping.
While the overall shape may be similar across models, you can easily identify a vintage RV by looking for more distinct characteristics, such as ornate buckles and rivets used for exterior trim or distinctive decals on the windows.
Additionally, the paint job can often give away an older model. Look for faded colors that show signs of wear and tear from years on the open road. However, some vintage recreational rigs have been so well-maintained or restored that they look almost new again.
The Grooviest Vintage Motorhomes
There’s a certain “cool factor” about a vintage motorhome or trailer that’s too good to be true when left to the mind’s eye.
That’s why you sometimes have to see why the older stylings make for such eye-popping groove candy. Below are some of the most unique and mesmerizing vintage motorhomes we’ve witnessed.
1950 Westcraft Coronado
Production Year(s): 1946 to 1948, 1950
Cool Features: It is one of the rarest and most sought-after vintage motorhome models from its era, boasting a unique exterior design with curved lines and a striking two-tone paint job.
On top of that, its iconic front end looks as modern today as it did in 1950.
The 1950 Westcraft Coronado provides adventure seekers with all the comforts of home: a full kitchen with an oven, stove, sink, a sizable dining area, a couch, and a full-size bed.
Riverside Retro Toy Hauler
Production Year(s): Since 2008
Cool Features: Riverside RV’s Retro Toy Hauler isn’t an actual vintage camper, but it sure looks like one. It has all the swagger of the 1950s vintage style, but packed with today’s modern conveniences.
This cool-looking vintage motorhome comes in two floor plans, a 20-foot 6-inch version and a 27-foot 4-inch version.
It has all the modern amenities you’d expect, such as a bathroom with a toilet and shower and a kitchenette. The toy hauler cargo area can also be converted into a dining and sleeping area.
Shasta Airflyte
Production Year(s): Originally in 1961, reintroduced in 2015
Cool Features: The original 1961 introduced a sleek design in fabulous colors, such as matador red, seafoam green, and butternut yellow. It’s also got stylish air fins on the back.
While finding the original difficult, there was a reintroduction of a limited run in 2015.
They mimic the originals with a small kitchen and a table that seats four people, but with updated lighting, power, and windows.
Happier Camper HC1
Production Year(s): Since 2015
Cool Features: Happier Camper’s HC1 is another vintage motorhome with a fabulous retro look. The coolest thing about this small eggshell camper (besides the look) is its interior utilizing Adaptiv components. An owner can easily reconfigure this modular build to fit their desires on the fly.
The HC1’s rear hatch opens up the entire back end, and an upward-opening side window creates an indoor-outdoor counter to extend the living space. An owner can arrange the modular pieces outside for an outdoor living space.
Keep in Mind: So how much does a Happier Camper cost? Let’s take a look!
1961 Holiday House Geographic
Production Year(s): 1960 to 1962
Cool Features: Also known as Model X, there were possibly only seven of the Holiday House Geographics made, with only two left in existence.
This vintage motorhome has a sci-fi-looking exterior due to its custom design. One has been completely restored from the ground up by Flyte Camp in Bend, OR.
The Holiday House Geographic is 24 feet long and sleeps up to four people. It has a water capacity of 40 gallons and an air conditioner.
Winnebago (Brave & Warrior)
Production Year(s): Began in 1966, still producing motorhomes today
Cool Features: The Winnebago rose to popularity with models such as the Brave and Warrior with its iconic flying W logo on the side. Winnebago inspired the road-tripping dream.
The originals ranged from 17 feet to 27 feet in length, each housing a full bathroom, queen bed, loft over the bed, freshwater tank, pantries, and wardrobe closets.
They also have a dining area, a sofa bed, a pedestal table in the living area, and space for a TV. The retro look of the 60s has continued its influence over the years, but with modernized amenities on the inside.
1970s GMC Motorhome
Production Year(s): 1972 to 1978
Cool Features: Dubbed the Cadillac of motorhomes during its time, the 1970s GMC Motorhomes was a 6×6 beast of an RV with a V8 engine and with three-speed automatic.
If you’re not familiar, 6×6 means that the GMC Motorhome was all-wheel drive but with three axles and at least two wheels on each axle. In short, it could get you places!
GMC didn’t skimp on the interior either. It had wood panels, warm, cozy upholstery, captain chairs, a kitchen area with a full-sized refrigerator and oven for cooking meals, and a sink for washing dishes. There was also an abundance of storage.
Gidget Teardrop
Production Year(s): 2013 to 2018
Cool Features: This stylish modern take on the popular 1960s teardrop campers has a curved front end that pulls out like a slideout on larger RVs. This nearly doubles the amount of cabin space.
Not only does the Gidget Teardrop incorporate its unique slideout feature on the front, but a rear hatch also opens to a full outdoor kitchen.
The camper also has a solar panel on top and a skylight to make this small space feel a bit roomier.
How Much Does a Vintage Motorhome Cost?
An older motorhome that isn’t all that rare could cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or $15,000, depending upon the size and condition.
Then again, the older and the rarer a vintage motorhome is, the more it will cost. It’s not uncommon for a well-maintained and scarce vintage motorhome to cost anywhere from $50,000 to $75,000 – or more.
Remember that 1961 Holiday House Geographic on our list? That one is so rare that it was publicly listed for sale on eBay for as much as $229,000! But that’s what happens when it is fully restored and is only one of two believed to be in existence.
How Long Do Vintage Motorhomes Last?
With proper maintenance and care, vintage motorhomes can easily last decades. It’s all in how well they’re taken care of.
Additionally, plenty of parts are available to keep these old classics in tip-top shape, so they will be around for as long as owners keep them in good condition.
Keep in Mind: Looking for more vintage campers? Step Back in Time With These Campers!
Would You Own a Vintage Motorhome?
When it comes to traveling in style, there’s nothing quite like a vintage motorhome.
While they may require more upkeep than their modern counterparts (though that’s debatable), their unique design and charm make them incredibly desirable.
Whether you want to blast off on your next adventure or simply enjoy a peaceful weekend getaway, owning a vintage motorhome is an experience one will never forget. Now the only question left to ask is, would you own one?
