Craig Shipp
The Prevost Marathon Coach from 1998 is the BEST RV ever produced!
Why the 1998 Prevost Marathon is the Finest RV Ever Produced
When it comes to luxury, craftsmanship, and durability in the RV world, few names stand out as prominently as Prevost. The 1998 Prevost Marathon, in particular, has earned its place as one of the finest RVs ever produced. This masterpiece of engineering and design blends high-end luxury with unmatched performance and reliability. Here’s why this iconic RV deserves all the praise it gets.
1. The Powerhouse: Pre-Emissions Detroit Diesel Series 60 Engine
At the heart of the 1998 Prevost Marathon is the legendary Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine. This pre-emissions engine is a true workhorse, known for its exceptional performance and longevity. While newer engines are often bogged down with complex emissions systems, the Series 60 is celebrated for its simplicity and power. With a robust 500 horsepower, this engine provides effortless cruising, even on steep inclines or long highway stretches.
What makes the pre-emissions Series 60 so special is its ability to offer both power and durability without the need for complicated exhaust systems. These engines are renowned for running smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles when properly maintained, making the 1998 Prevost Marathon an excellent choice for those seeking reliability in an RV. The sound of this engine purring along the open road is a signature part of the experience, and it’s something that has stood the test of time for owners of these iconic buses.
2. Timeless Durability: Riveted Stainless Steel Side Panels
The body of the 1998 Prevost Marathon is another testament to its legendary status. The exterior is constructed with riveted stainless steel side panels, which not only give the RV a sleek, polished look but also ensure exceptional durability. Stainless steel is known for its resistance to corrosion, which is crucial for a vehicle that’s meant to endure the harshest conditions—be it extreme temperatures, salty air near coastal areas, or rough road conditions.
Unlike fiberglass or aluminum, which can be more susceptible to dents, cracking, or fading over time, the stainless steel panels of the 1998 Prevost Marathon are practically impervious to damage. The riveted construction method also ensures that the panels stay securely fastened over the long term, providing a solid, robust structure that can endure decades of road trips. This type of build quality is rare in the RV world today and one of the main reasons the 1998 Prevost Marathon continues to be celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts. Add to this the absence of slideouts and this Marathon coach is as solid as a bank vault. Even after decades of use there are no squeaks and rattles when going down the highway. Special note: Even with stainless steel side panels and trim proper maintenance and care is necessary for long life. The coach featured on this page spent its life in southern California and has zero rust.
3. Unmatched Luxury and Comfort
Prevost and Marathon Coach have long been synonymous with the finest in luxury RV craftsmanship, and the 1998 Prevost Marathon is no exception. Inside, you’ll find a meticulously crafted living space that redefines what it means to travel in style. Leather seating, polished wood finishes, and high-end fixtures create a space that feels more like a five-star hotel suite than a vehicle on wheels.
From spacious living areas to fully equipped kitchens and plush bedrooms, every corner of the 1998 Prevost Marathon exudes comfort and sophistication. The attention to detail is evident in the high-quality materials used throughout, from the hand-crafted cabinetry to the premium flooring. Whether you’re traveling across the country or parked at a scenic campground, this RV provides an experience of unmatched comfort.
4. A Testament to Craftsmanship
It’s not just the individual components of the 1998 Prevost Marathon that make it so special; it’s the overall level of craftsmanship that makes it a true standout. Each unit was custom-built by Marathon Coach, a company renowned for its attention to detail and commitment to quality. The process involved skilled artisans who took pride in creating a vehicle that wasn’t just a means of transportation, but a piece of art.
The 1998 Prevost Marathon is a reflection of an era when luxury and performance were prioritized without compromise. Each model was built to order, ensuring that every owner got exactly what they wanted—whether it was specific finishes, layouts, or features. The result is an RV that is not only timeless but also uniquely tailored to the desires of its owner.
5. PowerTech Generator - Bring Your Own Power!
With the commercial grade 20kw PowerTech diesel generator on board there is no shortage of power wherever this amazing coach goes!
6. A Legacy That Endures
There’s a reason why so many of the 1998 Prevost Marathons on the road today are still going strong. With its combination of a powerful, reliable engine, durable construction, and luxurious features, this RV has proven to stand the test of time. Many owners report that after years of use, their Marathon still runs as smoothly as the day it was built. That level of reliability, paired with the timeless appeal of its design, ensures that the 1998 Prevost Marathon will continue to be a prized possession for decades to come.
In conclusion, the 1998 Prevost Marathon isn’t just a great RV—it’s a symbol of an era when quality, craftsmanship, and durability were the priorities in the world of luxury motorhomes. From its pre-emissions Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine that offers unmatched power and longevity, to its riveted stainless steel side panels that are built to last a lifetime, this RV represents the pinnacle of engineering and design. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the 1998 Prevost Marathon remains, without a doubt, the finest RV ever produced.
Above: The coach came with a Waterloo tool box. I already had a SnapOn toolbox and it fits perfectly. So out with the Waterloo and in with the Snapon!
Below are screenshots of the state of my LiPo4 batteries before and after 1.5 hours of charging via my PowerTech generator.
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