Hi All,
I spent the afternoon talking with the Eurovan sales team (Prestige Motors
in Santa Rosa, CA) and instead of the 1999 model, I took all the advice! I
am going for the 1997 EV/Winnebago with 12-CD changer, rear door screen
(snap-on), retractable awning (permanently affixed to gutter side of
sliding doors) with the netting (it's called the Add-A-Room option).  ALl
of this for the out the door/drive away price of $38,000. Considering I
almost spent $40,000 with no options less than a few days ago, I'm really
happy about this new deal.

Thanks to everyone who lended an ear and responded with tips and ideas (and
support and outrage at the price!)....this virtual community resulted in a
more informed purchase and peace of mind for me. I got the deal I needed
and it's made me feel even better about this decision.  The price may still
be more than some of you think I should pay, but I was impressed with their
service organization (they're next door to the Winnebago RV center) and as
they said, they need to make money on these, too, so they can continue to
provide the EV support and quality of service. Owning a service business as
I do, I understand that logic. They also only sell 3-4 of these a year and
still maintain a comprehensivbe inventory - which they want to show me.
Amazingly, they had the retractable awning and screens in stock (two sets
to be precise!)! Also, I spoke to their EV mechanic who has been just
returned from a Winnebago =training session in Iowa.  Why all the support
when they only sell 3-4 a year?  The owner of the VW dealership has two
EVs!!!

Thank you for your help!  I'll report back when I have my first camping
trip under my belt!

Kind regards,
Robin

Robin Reed
415-732-6181 tel
415-931-5220 fax
http://www.reedgroup.com