..having just seen a friends, I am looking through all the adverts locally and online. We used to have a VW campervan and thoroughly enjoyed the freedom it gave for days out etc. and ride position. I accept that the Townie would not be much use as a 'sleeper', but from what I have read on this board, it would fulfil most of my criteria. First of all I love automatics and have always yearned after a diesel model. I assume the ride height is nearly the same as a VW!...able to see well ahead in the countryside. Plenty of space inside to stretch your legs whilst having a well earned break!
Is there any particular model to look out for with regards to all the extras - is there one to avoid!!!
What are the dimensions of the Townie?...fuel capacity etc.
What procedure should I follow in checking out a prospective buy!!
What's a moonroof? what's the other option?
Thanks for any help and the board is great!!

- (#9335) Gerry Stebbings, 27 Jun 03 9:26

...it seems that one big problem is INSURANCE!...is it really a nightmare to get cover?

- (#9336) Gerry Stebbings, 27 Jun 03 9:30

Gerry, you really have to go and read the archives at Ace Answers.

- (#9337) Anna Christine, 27 Jun 03 10:02

Gerry
anna is right i had similar problems but ace answers solved it. give it a read, there is a separate section on the subject plus i reduced my outlay considerably
regards
brian

- (#9338) brian squire, 27 Jun 03 16:49

...doing a lot of homework on these....have now found that there are Liteaces AND Townaces.......please tell me simply the difference..be it size, price, performance etc!...how do you choose?
Anna & Brian - thanks, I've had a very enjoyable read through the board....nearly missed out on my supper last night!!

- (#9339) Gerry Stebbings, 28 Jun 03 7:47

Seems like a simple question but,If I buy from an importer, what sort of warranty should I be offered?

- (#9340) Gerry Stebbings, 28 Jun 03 12:28

Gerry - have you considered the Hiace Supercustom imports - They are closer to the VW size wise, seats convert to beds, autobox, twin aircon etc.
Size wise it fits in the supermarket parking bays - no wider than a family saloon but probably a better turning circle. Have not measured but guess as good or better interior space than the VW.
If you want measurements or more info on these vehicles e-mail direct
Chris

- (#9341) chris turner, 28 Jun 03 17:14

Hi Gerry

When we bought our 1991 Townace last year the dealer arranged a Twelve Month Warranty( 5 Star Mechanical Breakdown Insurance )for us with Groupama Insurances for about £140, on top of the three months warranty he had given us, but you must comply with their service intervals and have a new cambelt fitted and keep your service charge receipts safely. Had no serious trouble so far plus there is plenty of help and advice on this site.

Best of luck, Wyn

- (#9342) Wyn Hamer, 28 Jun 03 17:24

The other main difference you will find from a Town/Lite/Hi - ACE over a VW is that you won't wake half the neighbourhood with the racket from the engine and exhaust. These may be diesels but they're quiet!

- (#9405) Ian Dunse, 30 Jun 03 7:33

Thanks for all the input, each little gem that comes my way convinces me even more that a Townie is the one for me!
- (#9406) Gerry, 30 Jun 03 13:31

After alot of research, I found the MasterAce Surf to be the better buy for us.... 6 luxury seats, of which the back two fold up to the side giving us enough room to sleep on the floor... or you can sleep on the back seats when folded down and attached to the middle seats folded down = two single beds (but your arm will hang off the side)... comfortable enough. Has loads of character and comfort.
Try Lifesure for insurance
www.lifesure.co.uk (01480-474604). They were £300 less than the other cheapest I found, and they don`t need the van to have an alarm.

- (#9407) Storm, 2 Jul 03 12:06