I don't know much about the MA line except what I read in the brochures. I would like to understand the real world differences in comparing the two coaches.
One way to look at it is, the NA was the small version of the hi-lines. MA38 may be the higher end of the NA, in small package. There are a lot of units towing stacker trailers. A 7' reduction in the overall length makes a noticeable difference. There are also those who like the hi-end units, but are a bit weary of the 45s. A 38 can make a nice difference.
Just like you discovered the first version NA's had some concerns, which are now being resolved. The MA38's likely go thru the same evolution in a few years.
At least for the short busses I am having a hard time understanding the merits of an $11,000 premium chassis.
What I see and like maybe different than what you may consider worthwhile. One option I can suggest, find a dealer that has the NAs on both the Freightliner and Spartan. Take them for a spin back to back, same road, same tests. Besides the normal driving, you may want to consider a bit more assertive driving style. After all, the benefit of a proper chassis design comes into play when you have to deal with adversity while driving. Obviously under control, you can try faster lane changes, faster turning, breaking while turning, harder braking, some slaloms. These can provide real feed back for evasive maneuvering in a real life scenarios. Further, if they have a MA38, even better, to compare the NA platform with the MA, at the same time. Chassis is your connection to the road. Even if you always drive 'slow' and cautious, while driving, always expect the unexpected. The best way for you to evaluate any perceived chassis benefit, is for you to give them a bit of stress in your own driving style.
Thats an engine torque/HP issue. Bigger trans for a higher engine output. Obviously 4 is bigger, heavier, more oil, etc..
That may be the case. However, I wonder how much of that may be due to insulation issues. I know they advertise considerable insulation layers. I think it “maybe” more of a workmanship issue. From my experience, they leave some gaps here and there, plus the slides that are often not sealed properly. If you are in warm weathers, you notice it is often too warm inside. But, if you were often in colder and windy weather, then there is a better chance of noticing the cold draft inside. I think this is where they have issue. The fast pace assembly line, anything goes. Unfortunately.
I did not talk about the interior comparisons.
I think one way to compare the two 'maybe' comparing a 43 DS to a 45MA. I wasn't sure if the convection maybe smaller in the NA? The basement freezer seems much smaller. Obviously they don't have the front TV in the NA, not a big deal, but means you have to use the televator constantly. I personally very rarely used the televator, in a few special occasions. That space could be used to make more room for when the slides are all closed up.
Last, if you have the option, consider visiting the factory. Every show I've been to with spartan on display, the freightliner's comparable chassis was missing. If you go to factory, you can see both in their original state. Further, with the mods newmar does to the NA original chassis, I think it 'maybe' worthwhile to see what they do and ask the newmar chassis people, what, if any, differences they see.
Plus, one of the advantages newmar has compared to many (except Newell, etc.) is the customization. You can't change the paint scheme, but can change all the colors. Why not make something in your own like. At the factory, you get to see all the different color combinations and other options for inside. Plus talk directly to people who decide what can or can't be done. Given the investment, whatever additional features you like, try to add them. In my experience, their prices seemed reasonable. Now, there maybe customization that the production may deny. Some are due to production limitations. But,I've found that, the service would be happy to accommodate. So if you consider an FPU, have service plan on making those mods for your FPU.
