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Explore the Autohomes Merlin and Excalibur Models (1983-1988)

Autohomes Merlin and Excalibur shared several features yet boasted distinct layouts, with the Merlin carrying an extended Luton overcab.

Explore the Autohomes models Merlin and Excalibur, produced between 1983 and 1988.
Explore the Autohomes models Merlin and Excalibur, produced between 1983 and 1988.

Explore the Autohomes Merlin and Excalibur Models (1983-1988)

In the realm of British motorhome history, Autohomes stands out as a trailblazer, renowned for its coachbuilt motorhomes that redefined the industry. Originally part of Caravan International's motorised division, Autohomes rose to prominence as the UK's leading manufacturer of coachbuilt motorhomes.

## Notable Motorhome Models: Excalibur and Merlin

Autohomes' Excalibur and Merlin models were two of its most iconic creations. The Excalibur, typically built on Volkswagen, Peugeot, or Ford chassis, was celebrated for its robust construction and practical internal layout. It often featured a fixed rear bedroom, a central kitchen and bathroom, and a swiveling cab for an expanded living space. This layout maximised living comfort and storage for small families or couples.

The Merlin, another key model in the Autohomes range, was also coachbuilt on reliable van chassis. Its layout usually included a compact but efficient kitchen and dining area, a well-positioned toilet and shower, and flexible sleeping arrangements—often including a rear double bed and a cab swivel for additional daytime seating. The Merlin was especially favoured for its maneuverability and all-weather usability, suitable for both short trips and extended touring.

## Historical Context

Autohomes' rise to prominence came after Caravan International restructured and rebranded its motorised division. The company's focus on high-quality coachbuilt designs set it apart in an era when many motorhomes were still van conversions. Notably, Autohomes motorhomes, such as those built on the Volkswagen T3 platform (e.g., the 'Kamper'), are still celebrated for their craftsmanship and reliability.

## Subscription Service

For those interested in staying updated on all things motorhome related, Autohomes offers a subscription service. This service delivers news and features either to the reader's door or inbox, providing regular weekly updates on motorhome-related topics. The subscription service also includes access to the website magazine, which offers a commentary on buying a used Autohomes 'W' Range/Equipe (1995-2002), emphasising their versatility.

The subscription service has a special offer for its website magazine, making it an attractive option for motorhome enthusiasts. Contemporaneous male reviewers called the worktop in Merlin a 'writing desk', while female reviewers described it as a 'dressing table'. Today, a 'multi-use workspace' might be a less gender-specific description for the worktop in Merlin.

## Legacy

Autohomes’ Excalibur and Merlin models remain highly regarded among vintage motorhome enthusiasts, both for their solid construction and thoughtful, adaptable layouts. Their enduring popularity is a testament to Autohomes’ legacy as a pioneer in UK coachbuilt motorhome manufacturing.

Autohomes, originally known as Bluebird Caravans, started as a manufacturer of coachbuilts. In Merlin, the washroom was moved to the offside rear corner, and the wardrobe to the nearside rear corner, while the lounge was followed by a kitchen, washroom, and wardrobe, with an additional single dinette at the far rear in Excalibur. The first mega-sellers for Autohomes were Talbot Express-based Excalibur and Merlin.

Between the washroom and wardrobe in Merlin was a worktop, underneath which were drawers and a freestanding stool. The Johannesson Husbilen was dubbed as "Sweden's first motorhome."

  1. For those intrigued by motorhome lifestyle and updates, Autohomes offers a subscription service that delivers news and features either to the reader's door or inbox.
  2. The Merlin, a renowned Autohomes model, was celebrated for its efficient kitchen and dining area, versatile sleeping arrangements, and unique worktop often described as a 'writing desk' or 'dressing table' by contemporary reviewers.
  3. The legacy of Autohomes can be seen in the enduring popularity of its vintage models, such as the Excalibur and Merlin, which are appreciated for their robust construction and adaptable layouts.
  4. Interestingly, Autohomes, originally known as Bluebird Caravans, started its journey as a manufacturer of coachbuilts. Their first mega-sellers were the Talbot Express-based Excalibur and Merlin, which showcased innovative designs such as moving the washroom to the offside rear corner in Merlin and adding an additional single dinette at the far rear in Excalibur.

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