When you’re looking at a 2006 Burstner Argos A 747 2, you’re considering a motorhome that was built when German engineering still meant something substantial. This isn’t your typical weekend getaway van; at nearly 9 metres long and weighing 5 tonnes, the Argos A 747 2 was designed for families who take their touring seriously and need space for everyone and everything.
The twin-axle configuration tells you immediately that Burstner wasn’t messing about with this model. You’d be looking at a motorhome that could handle extended family holidays without the constant worry about weight limits that plagues smaller vans. With six forward and rear-facing belted seats, this was clearly aimed at families who wanted to travel together legally and safely, rather than the usual motorhome compromise of “we’ll sort something out when we get there.”
What makes the 2006 Argos A 747 2 particularly interesting is that full-width garage – at 2.3 metres wide, you’d actually be able to fit proper family kit in there. Bikes, outdoor furniture, maybe even a small motorbike if that’s your thing. This wasn’t token storage space; it was genuine load-carrying capability.
Size and Practicality of the Burstner Argos
At 8.86 metres long, the Argos A 747 2 sits firmly in “proper motorhome” territory. You’d need to think carefully about where you’re planning to tour; those narrow Devon lanes might become a bit of an adventure, and you’d definitely want to recce your pitches before booking. The 3.25-metre height means you’d clear most barriers, but you’d still need to keep your wits about you around low bridges.
The twin rear axles aren’t just for show – they’re there because this motorhome was built to carry weight properly. With a 5,000kg MTPLM and 775kg payload, you’d have genuine capacity for extended touring without constantly playing the “what can we leave behind” game that smaller motorhomes force on you.
Driving the Argos A 747 2
The Fiat Ducato chassis underneath would have been well-proven by 2006, though there’s some confusion in the records about whether you’d get the 2.8-litre or 3-litre diesel engine. Either way, you’d be looking at adequate rather than exciting performance. This isn’t a motorhome you’d buy for spirited driving through the Scottish Highlands.
With a six-speed manual gearbox, you’d at least have proper control over the engine, which matters when you’re hauling 5 tonnes up hills. The twin-axle setup would give you stability on motorways, though you’d definitely feel the length when manoeuvring on site. The reversing camera would be essential rather than optional, backing this into a pitch without one would be a proper challenge.
Living Space in the Burstner Argos
The six-berth layout means you’d have sleeping space sorted, but the real question is whether you’d want to live with five other people in the space provided. The double bed above the cab would be standard motorhome fare, fine for kids or the more agile adults, but you’d need to consider the climb up and down, especially for middle-of-the-night bathroom visits.
Storage throughout the Argos A 747 2 appears comprehensive, with space above and below throughout the living area. This matters more than you might think – six people generate a lot of stuff, and having proper places to put it all makes the difference between comfortable touring and living in chaos.
Argos A 747 2 Kitchen Layout
The kitchen specification mentions oven, grill, sink, hobs and fridge (standard motorhome kit), but the question would be whether there’s enough worktop space for preparing meals for six people. You’d likely find yourself doing a lot of prep outside under the electric awning, which would be fine in good weather but less appealing when it’s chucking it down in Wales.
The fridge size isn’t specified, but in a six-berth motorhome from 2006, you’d probably be looking at something reasonably substantial. Even so, feeding six people from motorhome storage would require careful planning and regular shopping stops.
Burstner Argos Bathroom Facilities
The separate shower compartment would be a real bonus (shared bathroom space in a six-berth motorhome can become a serious bottleneck, especially with teenagers in the mix). Having the toilet and sink separate from the shower means you’d have some chance of getting everyone ready in the morning without major queuing.
The wet heating system with radiators throughout would keep the whole motorhome warm, including the bathroom. This matters more than you might think; a cold bathroom in a motorhome is genuinely unpleasant, and the Alde system (if that’s what’s fitted) would be a proper heating solution rather than just blown air.
Power and Water Systems
The control panel above the habitation door would give you proper monitoring of your systems: water levels, battery state, that sort of thing. In a motorhome this size, you’d need to keep track of your resources, especially if you’re planning any wild camping or longer stays between services.
The electric step and electric awning suggest this was specced as a proper touring motorhome rather than a budget option. These conveniences matter when you’re setting up and breaking camp regularly, though they’re also things that can go wrong and need fixing.
Argos A 747 2 on the Road
The CD radio with Bluetooth would have been quite modern for 2006, and the electric mirrors and windows show this wasn’t a basic specification. You’d have reasonable comfort for long driving days, though the size means you’d need to plan your routes carefully and allow extra time for everything.
Fuel economy would likely be in the 18-22 mpg range, which isn’t terrible for something this size but would add up on longer tours. You’d need to budget accordingly, especially with current fuel prices.
Storage Solutions in the Burstner
That full-width garage is the real star of this motorhome. At 2.3 metres wide, you’d have genuine storage space rather than the token lockers you get in smaller vans. This could transform how you tour: proper outdoor furniture, sports equipment, maybe even a generator if you’re planning extended off-grid stays.
The storage above and below throughout the living area would be essential with six berths to fill. You’d need every cubic centimetre when touring with a full complement of people and their belongings.
Other Motorhomes Worth Considering
If the Argos A 747 2 appeals but you want to compare options, the Hobby 750 FMSE Family-Focused German Package Review offers similar family-focused touring in a well-regarded German package.
For something more upmarket, the Concorde Charisma i 750 H Premium Build Quality Features Review would give you premium build quality and features, while the Carthago Chic E-Line i 51 QB DA Luxury German Manufacturing Review represents the luxury end of German motorhome manufacturing.
Final Thoughts
The 2006 Burstner Argos A 747 2 would suit families who need genuine six-berth capability and aren’t afraid of driving something substantial. The full-width garage and twin-axle stability would make it a serious touring tool, but you’d need to be comfortable with the size and weight implications.
At nearly two decades old, you’d want to check the condition carefully, particularly the heating system, electrical components, and any signs of damp. The Fiat base would be well-supported for parts and service, but the habitation area would need thorough inspection.
This isn’t a motorhome for tentative buyers or those wanting something easy to park at Tesco. But if you need space for six people and their gear, and you’re planning serious touring rather than weekend breaks, the Argos A 747 2 could be exactly what you’re looking for.
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