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Sportscar of Motorhomes: 1975 FMC Motorcoach

When it comes to motorhomes, being called the “sportscar” of the breed is pretty high priase. The FMC Motorcoach was once one of the granddaddies of the R/V industry, and this particular model was supposedly owned by the likes of Mario Andretti and Parnelli Jones, which added to its allure as one of the few motorcoaches that actually drove reasonably well thanks to its clever engineering. The example seen here has been in the seller’s care for the last seven years, and he has made significant investments in improving its reliability and driveability. There’s an obvious cost to that, so it’s of little surprise to see it here on eBay with bidding to over $45,000 – but thankfully, there’s no reserve.

The FMC supposedly earned its title as the better driving motorhome thanks to its rear engine layout, low center of gravity, four wheel independent suspension, and four wheel disc brakes. Right off the top, I can say that’s a lot more thought given to the drivability of such a large rig compared to most every other motorhome out there. The style is unique as well, and also reflects some actual time spent thinking through what the design would look like and how that would translate to better overall packaging. The name FMC stands for Food Machinery Corporation, which began as a company specializing in canning machinery. Eventually, FMC would begin producing amphibious vehicles for wartime efforts, which helps explain the transition to vehicles like these.

The seller has definitely over-indexed on the mechanical upgrades, and that’s a good thing for the next owner. The original Chrysler 440 was yanked in favor of a 2001 5.9 Cummins 24-valve diesel, and numerous other upgrades were made. These include ad Edge EZ Performance programmer; cold air intake with side scoop; 4″ exhaust with hi-flow stainless steel muffler;  Bully Dog lift pump; Total Cool aluminum radiator; and a 110 block heater for winter cold starts. The seller contends he has seen 17 miles per gallon under certain driving conditions, which is incredible for a rig of this size. The transmission is a 4-speed Allison 545 with a custom low stall torque convertor.

The living accommodations were quite nice, with fake woodgrain cabinetry and modern countertops. There’s plenty of lounging space and nicely upholstered chairs throughout. I can’t even begin to describe the laundry list of other work done, from custom airbag suspension to more than 70 percent of the original interior ripped out and redone. There’s a Powertech CD7000 7KW diesel generator with 3,100 hours on it that was recently serviced, and a new 60-gallon water tank mounted up front in the original location. It’s insane how much work has gone into modernizing this FMC, and the seller undoubtedly has more into it than he’s asking for here. The next owner better find time for a road trip or two – they, and the FMC, deserve it.

Comments

  1. Avatar photo Hoss

    That is one cool looking motorhome. I like it !!!!

    Like 13
  2. Avatar photo Sam Shive

    Looks and Reads Like A Great Deal. Always like the low look.

    Like 3
    • Avatar photo Mike Hogan Member

      My dad had one of these, neat sleeping layout, it was one of my favorites.

      Like 0
  3. Avatar photo Cadmanls Member

    That is sweet, have to say this caretaker has gone over and above. This would serve me well just a little larger than I need. Sure is a great rig and sounds very well thought out and build is everything and more.

    Like 5
  4. Avatar photo Connecticut Mark

    Beautiful RV , just seems 5 lug rims for a large vehicle?

    Like 0
  5. Avatar photo Mike

    Looks like the seller did all the upgrade$ for you. Always like meticulous owners.

    Like 4
  6. Avatar photo Dave Onorato

    “On the Road” with Charles Kuralt!

    Like 6
  7. Avatar photo Car Nut Tacoma

    Awesome looking motorhome. I’ve heard of the FMC Motorhome, but I’ve never seen one in person. I hope this goes to a good owner, one who will take care of it, and enjoy it. Given its condition, upgrades, and its rarity, I’d pay at, or near its $45,000 asking price.

    Like 1
  8. Avatar photo Bellingham Fred

    Sold! $49,100

    Like 5
    • Avatar photo Car Nut Tacoma

      Wow! That went fast! :)

      Like 1

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