Guide
Class B vs Class C Motorhome: Key Differences, By the Numbers
Class B motorhomes are camper vans built inside a regular van body; Class C motorhomes add a wider, separate living box behind a van or truck cab. Class Bs park and drive like a van; Class Cs offer more space, beds and tank capacity. In our catalog the typical Class B is 20′ 11″ long and sleeps 2; the typical Class C is 29′ 4″ and sleeps 4.
| Class B | Class C | |
|---|---|---|
| Models in our catalog | 92 (12 makers) | 318 (17 makers) |
| Typical length | 20′ 11″ | 29′ 4″ |
| Length range | 17′ 9″–24′ 9″ | 20′ 4″–44′ 11″ |
| Typical height | 9′ 10″ | 11′ 6″ |
| Typical dry weight | 7,830 lb | 10,100 lb |
| Typical GVWR | 9,350 lb | 14,500 lb |
| Typical sleeping capacity | 2 | 4 |
| Typical fresh / gray / black tanks | 26 / 20 / 10 gal | 44 / 39 / 32 gal |
| Typical manufacturer price | $193,000 | $232,000 |
| Median dealer discount off sticker | n/a | 23% |
Typical = median of published manufacturer specs (newest model year per model). Prices are manufacturer starting or MSRP figures where verified (often base prices); dealer discounts compare current listings with each listing’s own sticker MSRP.
Key differences
Size and parking
Class Bs (typically 20′ 11″) fit many standard parking spaces and some garages. Class Cs (typically 29′ 4″) are wider and taller, closer to a small truck in parking.
Space and beds
Class Cs have separate beds, dinettes and often an over-cab bunk. Class Bs usually have a convertible bed or a rear bed and a compact galley.
Bathroom and tanks
Many Class Bs have a wet bath (shower and toilet in one space), and some use a cassette toilet. Class Cs usually have a separate shower and larger tanks. Typical fresh water: 26 gal vs 44 gal.
Price
Class Bs are often priced close to or above many Class Cs because of their van chassis and compact engineering. Typical verified manufacturer prices in our catalog: $193,000 vs $232,000.
Class B: pros & cons
Pros
- Easy to drive and park, even in cities
- Works as an everyday or second vehicle for some owners
- Stealthy and quick to set up
Cons
- Tight living space and small tanks
- Usually a wet bath
- Often high price for the size
Class C: pros & cons
Pros
- More space, beds and storage
- Separate shower and larger tanks
- Good fit for families
Cons
- Harder to park and drive in cities
- Less suited to everyday driving
- Taller, so check clearances
Which should you choose?
Choose a Class b if…
- You travel solo or as a couple and move often
- You want to drive into towns and park anywhere
- You value simplicity over space
Choose a Class c if…
- You travel with kids or guests
- You stay several days in one place
- You want a full bathroom
A typical example of each
Common questions
Is a Class B or Class C cheaper?
It depends on the model. Class Bs often cost about as much as or more than Class Cs despite being smaller. In our catalog the typical verified manufacturer price is $193,000 for Class B and $232,000 for Class C.
How many people does a Class B sleep?
Most Class Bs sleep two, some up to four. In our catalog the typical published sleeping capacity is 2, versus 4 for Class C.
Do Class B vans have bathrooms?
Many do, usually a wet bath. Some use a cassette toilet instead of a black tank, and some smaller vans have no bathroom.
More RV comparison guides
Catalog figures update automatically as models are added: currently 92 Class B camper vans and 318 Class C motorhomes from manufacturer specifications.