by Holly Tribe
This week’s ‘Used Caravan’ selection is a five berth tourer from 1989. It may be well over twenty years old, but despite its age, this Coachman Mirage VIP is in remarkably good nick, with a well cared for exterior and near-impeccable inner cabin.
Coachman Caravans are well known for their superior build quality and high levels of interior refinement. And whilst the inside of this particular model may now appear quite dated, the workmanship that Coachman is famed for is plain to see.
In terms of layout, there’s a large U-shaped seating area to the front which converts into a spacious kingsize bed. Towards the rear, a second dinette can be transformed into another good sized double with a heavy duty bunk bed positioned above. The rear end can be sectioned off by drawing a curtain across the cabin creating a designated kid’s room or a private space for guests.
Whilst technology has moved on somewhat since 1989, and you certainly won’t find an electronically operated drop down bunk as in the 2011 Burstner Averso Plus, this is a basic, comfortable caravan ideal for first timers looking for a family-sized ‘van on budget.
History
The interior is a little dated, but in good condition considering the caravan’s age. And depending on the final price, the winning bidder may find they have enough change left over to re-upholster the cushions and breathe fresh life into this otherwise functional tourer.
A small wall area behind the curtain has been affected by a roof seal leak, which has caused the affected section to become ‘spongy’. However, the seller is keen to point out the problem has been treated and “none of the seating was damaged’.
The sellers’ description also draws attention to a weakened section of flooring running alongside kitchen surface area, which can be “easily strengthened from under the caravan.”
Kit & Caboodle
The kitchen comes equipped with a combination oven/grill with a three burner hob and a decent sized sink with a hot and cold mixer tap. The buyer can keep their perishables fresh in the three way fridge which also has a small ice compartment. The cabin can be heated in colder weather via a gas fire, and a pump supplies water to the taps and shower unit.
A chemical toilet, clean and waste water containers, gas bottle, spare wheel and power lead are all included in the sale, along with a Bulldog hitch lock, to help keep the caravan and contents safe. The seller recommends carrying out a gas check before first use; otherwise all the kit is listed in good working order and comes with the original manuals.
- Price: £405 (bidding not yet ended)
- Width: 7 feet
- Length: 18 feet
- Berth: 5
- Axle: Single
Click here to view more details on the 1989 Coachman Mirage VIP for sale
