Ace Airstream 600 EK 2008 Review: Compact Luxury for Discerning Couples

The 2008 Ace Airstream 600 EK offers a compelling package for couples seeking a manageable yet comfortable motorhome experience. Coming in at just under 6 metres in length, this compact two-berth vehicle delivers surprising functionality without overwhelming you with excessive size. If you’re looking to downsize from a larger motorhome or want something that’s easier to manoeuvre through narrow European roads, this Airstream deserves your consideration.

Built on the reliable Fiat Ducato platform with a 2.3 JTD 130bhp engine and 6-speed gearbox, this motorhome combines practical driving dynamics with thoughtful living spaces. The model featured in our research includes desirable extras like a Fiamma F45S awning, satellite dome, and rear-mounted bike rack with reversing camera, features that enhance both convenience and safety during your travels.

How Big Is The Ace Airstream 600 EK?

You’ll find this motorhome measures just under 6 metres in length, giving you enough space for comfortable living while remaining manageable on the road. The compact dimensions make it particularly suitable for navigating through narrow country lanes or finding parking in busier tourist areas where larger motorhomes might struggle.

Despite its modest footprint, the Airstream 600 EK doesn’t compromise on essential amenities. You’ll appreciate how the designers have maximised every centimetre of available space, creating a vehicle that feels surprisingly spacious inside despite its compact exterior dimensions.

Driving This 2.3 JTD Fiat Ducato

When you take the wheel, you’ll notice the responsive 2.3 JTD 130bhp engine provides ample power for most driving situations. The 6-speed gearbox offers smooth transitions between gears, making both city driving and motorway cruising comfortable experiences.

Your driving comfort is enhanced by practical features including cab air conditioning, electric mirrors, and electric windows. The cab area is fully lined, creating a more refined environment that reduces road noise and improves temperature regulation. The reversing camera adds confidence when manoeuvring in tight spaces, particularly valuable given this vehicle’s fixed rear bed configuration.

Living Space in Under 6 Metres

Your day-to-day living area provides a practical and comfortable environment centred around two bench seats that can be used for dining, relaxing, or entertaining guests. These seats are relatively long, potentially usable as single beds for some, though they’re primarily designed to convert into one large double bed.

Storage options surround the living area with overhead lockers and under-seat compartments, giving you plenty of space for clothes, equipment, and supplies. The TV mounting point on the right-hand side allows for entertainment options without dominating the living space.

Ace Airstream 600 EK Sleeping Arrangements

At night, you’ll be sleeping on a generously-sized double bed created by converting the bench seats in the living area. While the research doesn’t specify the exact dimensions, the description notes the bench seats are “relatively long,” suggesting a comfortable sleeping arrangement for most couples.

The conversion process appears straightforward, though specific details aren’t provided in the research materials. What’s clear is that this arrangement maximises the available space in a compact motorhome, giving you a comfortable place to rest after a day of adventures.

Rear Kitchen with Four-Burner Hob

Preparing meals gives you access to a well-equipped rear kitchen featuring a four-burner hob, oven, grill, sink, and fridge. The kitchen area is described as being in “lovely condition” in our research example, suggesting durable materials and thoughtful design.

The addition of a microwave expands your cooking options, particularly useful when you have hookup facilities available. While compact, the kitchen layout appears to provide adequate workspace for preparing meals for two people.

Does The 600 EK Have A Shower?

Your onboard bathroom offers a cassette toilet, sink, and shower in a combined yet functionally separated space. This “all one unit but separate at the same time” design maximises functionality while minimising the footprint, a clever solution for a compact motorhome.

The bathroom is positioned adjacent to a wardrobe, providing convenient access to fresh clothes after showering. While compact, the bathroom delivers all essential facilities you need for independent travel without requiring campsite facilities.

Ace Airstream Power and Entertainment Systems

For off-grid adventures, you’ll have the standard systems expected in a motorhome of this class, though specific details about battery capacity, water tank sizes, or heating systems aren’t mentioned in the research materials. The presence of a 240-volt connection point is noted, allowing for hookup at serviced pitches.

The satellite dome mounted on the roof suggests television reception capabilities, enhancing entertainment options when parked. However, specific details about solar panels or generator options aren’t provided in the research.

Storage Solutions in This Compact Motorhome

Your gear can be stored in multiple locations throughout the vehicle. The research specifically mentions storage above and below the seating area, plus a wardrobe adjacent to the bathroom. The external bike rack adds valuable carrying capacity without compromising internal living space.

For a compact motorhome, the 600 EK appears to offer reasonable storage options, though you’ll need to pack more selectively than you would in larger models. The efficient use of space is a hallmark of this design.

Who Should Buy The Ace 600 EK?

If you’re planning couple-oriented trips where manoeuvrability and ease of driving are priorities, the Ace Airstream 600 EK offers an attractive package. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for exploring smaller roads and villages that might be inaccessible to larger motorhomes.

The two-berth, two-seatbelt configuration clearly positions this as a couple’s vehicle rather than a family option. It’s ideal for extended tours where you want comfort without excessive size, or for weekend getaways where quick setup and departure are valued.

Ace Airstream 600 EK vs Similar Models

  • Larger Ace Airstream models: If you need more space but appreciate the build quality, consider larger variants in the Airstream range.
  • Newer Fiat Ducato-based compact motorhomes: For similar layouts with more modern features and potentially better fuel efficiency.
  • Van conversions: If maximum manoeuvrability is your priority and you’re willing to compromise on some living space.

Is This 2008 Ace Airstream Worth Considering?

The 2008 Ace Airstream 600 EK represents a thoughtful balance between compact dimensions and comfortable living. You’ll appreciate its manageable size when driving and parking, while still enjoying a fully-featured living environment once you’ve reached your destination.

This motorhome is best suited to couples who value ease of use and manoeuvrability over expansive living space. The well-designed interior makes efficient use of the available footprint, providing all essential amenities without feeling cramped.

When considering a purchase, pay particular attention to service history and condition, as this 2008 model will now be approaching 15 years old. The example we reviewed was in very clean condition, demonstrating that these vehicles can age well with proper maintenance. With its practical features and compact dimensions, the Ace Airstream 600 EK continues to offer an attractive proposition for motorhome buyers.

 

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A Note from the Author — Shane Malpass

I have been attending motorhome auctions since I was about 5 years old. Now that I am well into my thirties, I class myself as well schooled in the process of both selling and buying at motorhome auctions. And more than anything, I absolutely LOVE this industry!

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