Over the last few years we’ve often heard from readers of Caravan Times concerned about the increasing kerbweights of modern touring vehicles. Many feel that the price paid for today’s more luxurious and durable caravans is the weight increase. Yet our latest Used Caravan of the Week proves that one need not sacrifice space and interior appointments for lighter weight.
This week’s offering is a 5-berth model, yet weighs in at a sprightly 1150kg towing weight suitable for most cars. It comes from a venerable and sadly discontinued British brand which was once known for exceptional build quality and damp resistance. Founded in 1972 as a merger between tourer manufacturer ACE International and leisure home maker Belmont Caravans, ABI Caravans were renowned for making spacious and solid family tourers. Many have been looked after by careful owners, and you can still find a number of original ABI models on the road today.
Venerable Viceroy
The word “Viceroy” refers to a royal official who runs a country – and our ABI Jubilee model from 1993 certainly has a rather stately, old-fashioned presence to it. You’ll find lashings of pine wood throughout the caravan, with plenty of cupboard space and storage for all the family.
Often you’ll hear caravanners bemoan the lack of a closed-off bedroom area, and the Viceroy stands out for having a separate bedroom with its own door. Contained within is a double bed, while a single bunk can also be used above it where needed.
Meanwhile the front offers usefully versatile bedding: you can have two single beds or a kingsize double depending on guests.
History
The current owners have been in possession for four years “and enjoyed every moment of it”. It’s believed to be 1993 registered, and as mentioned earlier boasts an impressively light 1150kg towing weight. The owner reveals “there are the normal little marks expected on a caravan of this age, but it still looks great” and that “everything works great”.
Kit and caboodle
The Ace Jubilee Viceroy comes with a well appointed kitchen complete with gas oven, four burner hob and grill. The fridge freezer can operate three ways on gas, battery or electric power. A separate bathroom carries a Thetford cassette toilet, basin and shower, while hot and cold water is on tap. With a gas heater and double glazing the Viceroy is certainly aiming for the “home from home” feel.
And there are plenty of extras thrown in by the owner including a gas bottle, waste tank, aqua roll, mains hook up cable, a hitch lock, and a TV aerial. A well kept Dorema awning is a useful bonus.
- Price: £1,500 (reserve not met)
- Gross vehicle weight: 1,150kg
- Width: 2.13m
- Length: 6.70m
- Berth: 5
- Axle: Single
