Should you Consider a New or Used Winnebago?

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Mention the word, Winnebago and most people immediately think of a motorhome. The Winnebago brand has been so popular over the years that its name has become synonymous for motorhomes. However, when the company first formed in the mid-1950's, it was a desperate move to revive the economy of an Iowa farm town. 

While the rest of the United States enjoyed a post-war boom, Forest City, Iowa was on the brink of a recession. The local economy was based on farming, which held little attraction for young people. They were leaving the town to look for manufacturing jobs that provided better pay and more security. An astute businessman named John K. Hanson decided to make a bold move. He thought if he could attract a manufacturing plant to the area, it would revive the economy.

In 1958, he successfully negotiated with a travel trailer factory based in California to open a plant in Forest City. In 1960, this plant became known as Winnebago Industries. For the next six years, the company created innovative designs such as insulated sidewalls and custom-made furniture. In 1966, the American consumer saw the first Winnebago for sal​e​.

Winnebago Industries was not the first company to produce motorhomes. Inventors tinkered with the idea from as early as 1909. They would take existing cars, such as Ford’s Model T and try to convert them into living spaces, complete with outhouses. What made the Winnebago model stand out was that it was designed as a complete motorhome from start to finish. This allowed the company to include features that the conversion models lacked.

The first Winnebago for sale included four bunks and a dinette set, which folded down to make two more bunks. There was a complete kitchen and separate bathroom. Inside storage included cabinets and closets. A family of six could travel quite comfortably in this RV. These classic models can still be purchased at used RV sales. In fact, the very first model that Winnebago Industries ever made, was recently sold through an eBay auction.

Although the basic design has remained the same, Winnebago has changed the features to keep up with advancements in technology. They have improved everything from fuel efficiency to comfort features. New models include king-size beds, entertainment spaces, increased storage and even fireplaces. They also include satellite radio systems, DVD players and televisions.

Winnebago Industries has also worked to increase fuel efficiency to help RV-lovers cope with fluctuating fuel prices. They developed “Minnie Winnies”, which are smaller and more streamlined than the traditional models. They have also developed both gas and diesel engines to improve the mileage. The only innovation that did not work was when they tried to incorporate a French engine into the Winnebago. Although it was very fuel efficient, it simply did not have the horsepower that was necessary to carry the weight of the motorhome.

The Winnebago still enjoys popularity at used RV sales dealers. This is not only due to its craftsmanship but also to its iconic position in American pop culture. Winnebago RVs have been featured in such films as “Escape to Witch Mountain”, “The Blues Brothers” and “Lost in America” to name a few. It will always be a beloved part of American transportation history.