Class A Vs Class C RV: Differences + Pros and Cons

Two of the most popular types of RVs are Class A and Class C. The best RV for you depends on a number of factors including where you plan to camp, for how long you plan to camp, the number of people you’re camping with, and your personal preference. In this guide, I’ll explain the differences and outline the pros and cons of camping in a class A vs class C RV. I’ll cover size, amenities, ease of driving, cost, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, sleeping space, and much more.

Class A RVs are larger, more spacious, and more luxurious. Class C RVs are easier to drive and park, cheaper, and easier to maintain. Generally, class A motorhomes are the better choice for full time RV living, large families or groups, those who want luxury, and those who need to tow a large trailer or boat. Class C RVs are better for first-time motorhome owners, those on a tighter budget, those who take shorter trips, small families, and off-grid campers.

Over the past 10 years, I’ve camped extensively in both class A and class C RVs. Generally, I prefer class C due to the smaller size. I also enjoy the lower cost of ownership. They’re more fuel efficient. In this guide, I’ll share my experience. Hopefully, this guide helps you choose the best motorhome class for your style of camping.

What is a Class A RV?

Class A RVs are the largest and most luxurious types of motorhomes available. They are basically buses. Class As have a boxy shape with a flat vertical windshield. This design maximizes interior space and gives you a great view of the road.

Class A RVs are built on heavy-duty commercial chassis. They range in length from 25-45 feet long. They usually have one side door to enter and exit. The exterior is usually made from fiberglass or aluminum.

Class A motorhomes are available in both diesel and gas versions. Diesel-powered Class A RVs are often referred to as “diesel pushers” because the engine is in the rear. These have more towing capacity. Gas models have the motor in the front.

Class A RVs have the most amenities. They feature a full kitchen and bathroom, a dining area, and a living area. There are multiple slide-outs to expand the living space. Most class A motorhomes can comfortably accommodate 6-8 people.

Popular Class A RV brands include Winnebago, Thor Motor Coach, Tiffin Motorhomes, and Newmar, among others.

An Overview of Class C RVs

A Class C RV is a mid-sized motorhome that is built on a cutaway truck or van chassis. The front of the RV looks like a van. The living quarters are built into a fiberglass or aluminum box that is mounted onto the chassis. Class C RVs are easily recognizable by their distinctive cab-over bed.

Class C RVs range in length from 20 to 35 feet. They have a towing capacity of 5,000-8,000 pounds. That’s enough to bring a tow vehicle or boat. Most models accommodate 4-6 people.

The smaller design and familiar van design makes class C RVs easier to drive and park. Most class Cs have a gas motor. Larger Super C RVs have a diesel motor.

This is the type of RV I grew up camping in and the first type of RV I owned.

Common chassis used to build class C motorhomes include the Ford E-Series, Chevrolet Express, or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Some popular Class C motorhome brands include Winnebago, Coachmen, Thor Motor Coach, and Jayco.

Class A Vs Class C RV

Motorhome Size: Length, Width, Height, and Weight

Class A RVs are larger than class C RVs. Class A RVs range in length from 30 to 45 feet. They have a height of about 12-13 feet and a width of around 8.5 feet. Class A RVs weigh around 13,000-30,000 pounds depending on the size.

To compare, Class C RVs measure between 20 and 35 feet long with a height of around 10-12 feet and a width of around 8.5 feet. Class C motorhomes usually weigh around 10,000-14,000 pounds.

Size is an important factor to consider when choosing an RV. Some campgrounds have maximum lengths. In smaller campgrounds, the maximum RV size that can fit is 28 feet. You can’t camp everywhere with a large RV. You have more campsite options when you drive a smaller RV.

You’ll need to consider the height when planning routes. When driving a tall vehicle, you need to pay attention to height restrictions, such as bridges and tunnels.

Some roads also have weight limits. Most class A RVs are under the limit but it is something to be aware of. Check out this guide for more info on weight limits.

The larger size of Class A RVs has both benefits and drawbacks. Longer RVs have more living and storage space. They also have more space for luxury amenities and full-size appliances and larger bathrooms. This makes them better for long trips or full-time living. The larger size makes class A RVs harder to maneuver. They are also less fuel efficient.

The smaller size and lighter weight of Class C RVs makes them easier to drive and park. They also offer better fuel efficiency. Of course, the smaller size means less living space.

Living Space

Thanks to the boxy design, class A motorhomes have more usable space than class Cs. On a class C motorhome, the motor and cab take up 3-5 feet of space in the front. On a class A, the front end is flat. The motor is usually under the cab or in the back. Less space is wasted. Thanks to this design, a 30 foot class A will feel much roomier than a 30 foot class C. It will have at least 3 extra feet of usable length inside.

Class A RVs are known for their spacious interiors. Class As usually feature full-sized appliances with roomy bathrooms and kitchens. There is usually a separate living area and dining area. Most models have a couch and dining table and chairs. In addition, there is usually a separate private bedroom in the back. Class A RVs are basically apartments on wheels.

Class C motorhomes are more compact. There is less living space. Everything is smaller. The kitchen and bathroom are more compact. There is no separate bedroom. The main sleeping space is the cab over bed. There is less counter space. Class C motorhomes usually have a single living space that doubles as a dining area.

Most modern Class A RVs also feature multiple slide-outs. These can significantly increase the size of the living space. Some Class C motorhomes also feature slide-outs while others do not.

Winner: Class As offer more living space.

Ease of Driving and Maneuverability

Class C RVs are easier to drive than class A RVs. This is because they are built on a van chassis. They drive just like a large van or moving truck. The interior of the cab is also familiar. It has the same layout as a cargo van or pickup. The steering wheel, pedals, shifter, controls, etc. are all in the same place they usually are.

Class Cs are also more maneuverable. Because they have a shorter wheelbase, they have a smaller turning radius. This makes it easier to navigate tight parking lots, urban streets, campgrounds, and narrow forest roads. The smaller size of Class C motorhomes makes them all around easier to handle.

Driving a Class A RV is more difficult. There are a few reasons for this. First, they are long vehicles. This makes them a little more intimidating to drive. You have to pay attention to where the back of the RV is going. It would be easy to cut a corner and run over a curb or clip a car when turning. You have to know your turning radius and wheel cut so you can turn safely. This makes turning more difficult. These RVs are less maneuverable.

In addition, the controls and driving position are different. This is because class A RVs are built on commercial truck chassis. The pedals in a Class A RV may be slightly offset. This is done to make room for the steering column. The steering wheel position is often different as well. The steering wheel is more horizontal, like a bus. This can take some getting used to.

When you drive a class A RV, you’ll also need to bring a tow vehicle so you don’t have to drive the RV everywhere you want to go once you reach your destination. Towing a vehicle makes the RV longer and even harder to drive.

Driving a large RV can be stressful. There is a learning curve to driving a big motorhome.

Winner: Class C RVs are easier to drive.

Parking

Class C RVs are easier to park than class A RVs due to their smaller size. They can fit into smaller parking lots. They also take up fewer parking spaces. This makes it easier to find parking.

This allows you to be a little more spontaneous. If you want to stop to eat at a restaurant or grab a coffee, you can usually find a place to park. You don’t have to stress too much about not being able to find parking.

Class A RVs are harder to park due to their larger size. These big motorhomes take up more parking spaces. They are also difficult to maneuver in small parking lots. There are some parking lots you simply can’t enter. You won’t fit. In urban areas, finding parking can be a challenge. You may experience some anxiety about where you’re going to park. You can’t just stop anywhere. You need to consider where you’re going to park.

It’s important to note that neither Class A nor Class C motorhomes can fit into a standard parking space. They can’t fit in parking garages due to their height. As mentioned earlier, some campgrounds also limit RV length. Usually, the limit is around 28 feet.

Winner: Class Cs are easier to park.

Amenities

Class A RVs offer more amenities than Class C RVs. Class As are designed to be a home away from home. They are built for luxury camping.

The amenities of a class A RV usually include a spacious full bathroom with a bathtub, a kitchen with full-size appliances, a large living area with a sofa and chairs, a separate dining area, and a private sleeping area. Many class A models also come with a laundry room with a washer and dryer as well as a dishwasher. Some large models have a half bath for guests.

The fixtures and fittings are also more luxurious. Class A RVs may feature granite countertops, hardwood floors, tile bathrooms, leather seating, and other premium materials. The fixtures are also higher-end. There may be premium light fixtures, faucets, etc. The appliances are usually high-end as well.

Entertainment systems are usually higher-end as well. They may feature built in surround sound and large-screen TVs. There may be outdoor amenities such as a built-in outdoor kitchen and an exterior entertainment centers. Many models also come with a built-in generator.

On the other hand, Class C RVs tend to be a bit less luxurious. They have fewer features because they are smaller. The fixtures are a bit lower end.

The bathrooms and kitchens in Class C motorhomes are smaller. There usually isn’t a bathtub or a dishwasher or a washer and dryer.

The fixtures and fittings may be more basic. Most models have linoleum flooring and laminate countertops. There usually isn’t a built-in generator. The entertainment systems are also more basic. There usually isn’t any outdoor entertainment.

Winner: Class As are more luxurious.

Sleeping Space

Both types of RVs offer a range of different sleeping configurations. Class C RVs can usually sleep 4-6 people comfortably. One of the most recognizable features of Class C RVs is the cab-over bed. This is a queen-sized bed that sits above the cab. This is the primary sleeping space.

There are benefits and drawbacks of cab over beds. The main benefit is that the bed is out of the way. It saves space. It’s also always set up and ready to use. The main drawback is that you have to climb a ladder to access the bed. This can be a challenge for older people and those with disabilities. It’s also hard to make the bed. Headroom is also limited. Usually, you can’t sit up in the cab over bed. The cab over bed also isn’t very private.

Class C motorhomes also usually include a couch or dinette that converts into another bed. Usually, the convertible sleeping area is a full-sized or queen-sized bed. These sleeping areas need to be converted every night. Some models also offer fold-down or drop-down bunk beds.

Class A RVs usually have a separate master bedroom with a queen or king-sized walk-around bed. The bedroom is spacious and private. The bed is just like the bed you would use at home. It’s easy to get in and out of and to make.

Class A RVs often include a second large bed for guests. This is usually a hide-a-bed. Sometimes this bed pulls down from the ceiling. There is usually a convertible dinette as well. Some models also have bunk beds. Most class A RVs can comfortably sleep 6 to 8 people. Some larger models can accommodate as many as 10.

Winner: Class As have a more comfortable sleeping space and can sleep more people.

Kitchens

Class A RVs have more spacious and well-equipped kitchens. They feature full-sized appliances including a fridge, a four-burner stove, an oven, a microwave, and a dishwasher. There is usually a large double sink and plenty of countertop space. These kitchens also offer plenty of cabinet storage. The large kitchen makes it easy and convenient to cook healthy and tasty meals.

The kitchens in Class C motorhomes are more compact. They often come with smaller appliances. The kitchen may be equipped with a mini-fridge, a two-burner stove, and a small sink. Counter space is limited. Most models have a microwave but no dishwasher. Storage space is also more limited. You can still cook all of your favorite meals in a class C motorhome but it’s a bit more difficult.

Winner: Class A

Bathrooms

In Class A RVs, the bathroom is more spacious. There is a full bathroom with a separate toilet, sink, and shower area. Some luxury models even have a bathtub. Many larger Class A RVs, have two bathrooms. There may be one in the master bedroom and another half bath next to the main living area for guests. The bathrooms in Class A motorhomes are also more luxurious with premium fittings.

The bathrooms in Class C motorhomes are smaller and more compact. They are still full baths with a shower, sink, and toilet. Most are regular baths. Not wet baths. There is also only one bathroom. These bathrooms may also be more basic in design, with simpler fixtures and fittings.

Winner: Class A

Slide Outs

A slide out is a section of the side of an RV that extends outward. This increases the interior space when you’re parked. When the slide outs are extended, the inside of the RV looks and feels like a large room in a home. Slide outs can be used to increase the size of the living area, kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. Most slide outs are operated electronically with a switch on the wall.

In Class A RVs, slide outs are more common. They are also larger. Almost all modern Class A motorhomes have at least one slide out. Some models have 3-4. Slide outs class As more comfortable for full time living or larger groups. They make the interior feel way more spacious when they’re deployed.

Class C RVs have fewer slide outs. There may only be one. The side outs are also smaller. Many class Cs don’t have slide outs at all. This means the interior space is much smaller.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Slide outs can add weight to the RV. Slide outs also increase the risk of mechanical issues. Each slide out contains moving parts and a motor. Slide outs can also leak as they age.

Winner: Class As have more slide outs.

Storage Space

Class A RVs offer much more storage space than class C RVs. There is a large basement storage area under the living space. This space can be accessed from exterior hatches on the sides of the RV. These compartments are ideal for storing bulky items such as camping gear, bicycles, firewood, emergency equipment, outdoor furniture, etc.

Inside Class A RVs, there is plenty of cabinet and closet space for storing clothing, personal items, cleaning supplies, camping gear, and kitchen essentials. The larger fridge and kitchen cabinets also offer more food storage space.

Class C motorhomes have less storage space. Most models have a few small exterior storage compartments. You may only be able to fit a few camp chairs or some firewood inside.

Inside Class C motorhomes, closet and cabinet space is also more limited. The fridge and kitchen storage may also be smaller. You need to be more careful about what you pack and how you organize your gear. You may need to leave some stuff at home.

If you need space for storing large items like motorcycles, ATVs, a golf cart, jet skis, snowmobiles, etc. you might consider a toy hauler motorhome.

Winner: Class As have more storage space.

Price

Class A RVs are more expensive than Class Cs. On average, a class A motor home costs around $150,000-$250,000. Base models start at around $65,000. Luxury models can go for $1,000,000 or more.

Class C motorhomes are more affordable. On average, a class C motorhome costs around $60,000-$100,000. Prices start at around $50,000 for entry-level models. Premium models sell for $200,000+.

On average, a class A motorhome costs around $15,000-$30,000 more than a comparable class C motorhome.

Class A motorhomes are more expensive for several reasons. They are built with more premium materials. They have higher-end fittings and fixtures. They are also so they use more materials. The commercial chassis is more expensive as well.

If you’re on a tight budget, one great way to save money is to buy used. Motorhomes depreciate pretty quickly. You can save tens of thousands of dollars by buying a model that is a few years old.

Of course, the initial purchase isn’t the only cost. When buying a motorhome, you should also consider the cost of fuel, maintenance, storage, and insurance. This also adds to the cost of ownership.

Winner: Class Cs are cheaper.

Fuel Economy

Class C motorhomes get better gas mileage than Class As.

The average gas mileage for Class A RVs depends on whether it’s a diesel pusher or gas model. Class A diesel pushers usually average between 8 and 12 miles per gallon (MPG). Gas-powered Class A RVs usually average between 6 and 10 MPG.

Class C motorhomes generally average between 10 and 15 MPG. Class C motorhomes are more fuel-efficient because they are smaller and lighter. It takes less energy to move less mass around.

For an idea of the potential savings from driving a more fuel-efficient Class C RV, imagine you’re taking a 2,000 mile road trip. If a Class A gas RV averages 7 MPG, it would burn around 286 gallons of fuel during the trip. To compare, a Class C RV averaging 12 MPG would only burn about 167 gallons of fuel during the same trip. Assuming gas costs $3.50 per gallon, you would save around $417 while driving the Class C RV on this trip alone.

How much fuel efficiency matters depends on how many miles you drive. The fuel savings can add up over time. Particularly if you take long road trips. With the lower fuel cost of a class C, you could travel further or camp more often. Driving a more fuel-efficient RV is also more environmentally friendly.

Winner: Class Cs are more fuel efficient.

Maintenance

Class C motorhomes are easier and cheaper to maintain than class A motorhomes. The main reason is that they are built on a standard van chassis. Pretty much every mechanic has the knowledge and tools to work on these vehicles. If you encounter any issues or need repairs during a trip, you can almost always find a mechanic to help you, even in smaller towns. Labor is also cheaper because you don’t need a specialized RV mechanic.

Parts availability for Class C motorhomes is also better. Parts are cheaper as well. This is because there are millions of these vehicles on the road. The cargo van chassis that are used to build class C motorhomes are common commercial vehicles.

Class A RVs can be more expensive and difficult to maintain. These motorhomes often require specialized RV or truck mechanics who have experience working with larger vehicles. Not every mechanic knows how to work on large diesel engines. Finding a mechanic might be more difficult. Particularly in remote or rural areas. Parts will also be more expensive. Labor costs will be higher as well.

Finding parts for Class A motorhomes can also be more difficult. Class As are built with heavy-duty commercial truck chassis. There are fewer of these vehicles on the road. Parts are also more expensive because fewer are produced. This increases maintenance costs.

Generally, diesel engines have longer maintenance intervals. The maintenance is usually more expensive. Gas engines require more frequent maintenance but the maintenance is cheaper. There are trade-offs.

Winner: Class Cs are easier and cheaper to maintain.

Insurance

Insurance is another cost to consider. It’s usually more expensive to insure a class A motorhome than a class C. This is because class A motorhomes are more expensive for the insurance company to replace if there is damage. Repairs are more expensive as well. The cost difference isn’t huge but this is an expense worth considering.

Winner: Class Cs are cheaper to insure.

Campsite Options

You’ll have more campsite options to choose from when you camp in a class C RV. This is because class Cs are smaller. They can fit in more campsites.

Class A RVs are too large for some campgrounds. Many state parks, national parks, and national forests, can’t accommodate a 45 foot motorhome. Sometimes the roads are too narrow and curvy for a large RV. Sometimes the camping spaces themselves aren’t big enough. This limits your options. There are some places you simply won’t be able to camp when you drive a large class A RV.