Winnebago LeSharo
| Winnebago LeSharo | |
|---|---|
 Winnebago LeSharo | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Winnebago |
| Model years | 1983-1992 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | motor home |
| Layout | Front-engine, Front-wheel drive |
| Related | Renault Trafic |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Winnebago Rialta |
The Winnebago LeSharo (also sold as the Itasca Phasar) is a small motor home produced by Winnebago Industries. It was based on the Renault Trafic. It was designed to be extremely fuel-efficient compared to other self-contained motor homes but many drivers found it to be under-powered and replacement parts were not easily obtained in the US.[1] At 20 ft (6 m), it is about the same length as many full-size passenger cars, making it easy to park in a small space. Its successor is the Winnebago Rialta, which has a larger engine.
First generation (1983-1986)
Built during the era when tougher fuel economy laws had just come into effect in the US and the national speed limit was 55 mph to save fuel, the LeSharo was intended to appeal to drivers who wanted better fuel efficiency than traditional motor homes. The chassis and cab were built by Renault, based on the same platform as the Renault Trafic. Renault sold complete knock down (CKD) kits to Winnebago[2] All the 1983 models were powered by the 2068cc all aluminum OHC 4 cylinder normally-aspirated diesel engine (producing 66 hp) with a 4 speed manual transaxle, yielding 22 mpg (US). In 1984 an optional turbo charger was added, increasing power to 75 hp. In 1985, a 2165cc Bosch fuel injected 4 cylinder gasoline engine became available, with a 3 speed computer-controlled automatic transaxle, delivering more power but somewhat less fuel economy and making the vehicle 423 lb (192 kg) heavier. After 1986, the diesel engine was discontinued.
Second generation (1987-1992)
The Winnebago LeSharo was redesigned for the 1987 model year with a more aerodynamic design and a larger rear window. The spare tire was moved from the outside rear into a rear storage compartment. Gross Vehicle Weight increased from 5,830 lb to 6,677 lb and exterior height increased from 97 inches (2.46 m) to 99 inches (2.51 m). The diesel engine was no longer available. An optional 5 speed manual transaxle became available in 1988 and 1989 only.
Total U.S. sales
Approximately 15,000 Lesharos were sold between 1983 and 1992.
References
- ↑ "Why LeSharo". Retrieved 13 September 2013.
- ↑ "Curbside Classic: 1985 Winnebago". Truth about cars. Retrieved 15 January 2012.