How Big Is The Dethleffs Esprit i7870?
The Esprit i7870 is built on a Fiat Ducato chassis with a powerful 3-litre JTD 160bhp engine, providing ample power for confident driving even on challenging terrain. You’ll find the three-axle configuration enhances stability, particularly important for a vehicle of this size.
When parked, you’ll benefit from the large Omnister awning that creates a generous outdoor living space. The 4,500kg gross weight means you’ll need a C1 licence to drive it, but this weight allowance gives you exceptional payload capacity for all your travel essentials.
The water capacity is particularly impressive: 168 litres of fresh water and 156 litres of waste water storage, significantly exceeding the typical 100-120 litre capacity found in many motorhomes.
Driving This 3-Litre A-Class
Behind the wheel, you’ll enjoy excellent visibility through the large A-class windscreen and side windows. The cab comes well-equipped with features that make driving more comfortable and convenient:
- Electric windows
- Electric mirrors
- Cab air conditioning
- Six-speed gearbox
- Cruise control
- Reversing camera
The passenger door on the front is a welcome feature that not all A-class motorhomes offer, making access easier and providing additional ventilation options when parked.
Living Inside This German Motorhome
The interior layout makes excellent use of space with a lounge area featuring dark wood cupboards that add a touch of elegance. You’ll find:
- Bench seating to the side
- A practical dining table
- Two forward-facing seats with safety belts
This area converts into a comfortable double bed, contributing to the six-berth capacity. The control panel is conveniently located above the habitation door, putting all systems within easy reach.
Where Does Everyone Sleep?
You’ll have three distinct sleeping areas in this motorhome:
- A drop-down double bed above the cab that lowers to a comfortable height without requiring you to fold the driver and passenger seats
- The convertible lounge area that transforms into a double bed
- A fixed double bed at the rear positioned above the garage
The rear bed features an adjustable height system, allowing you to prioritise either sleeping comfort or garage storage space depending on your needs. When raised, the bed sits approximately four feet high, but can be lowered for easier access.
Cooking In The Esprit’s Kitchen
The kitchen area is well-equipped for preparing meals on the road:
- A generous 175-litre fridge
- Oven and grill
- Sink with cover
- Four-burner hob (one larger, three standard)
- Integrated bin on the kitchen counter (an unusual but practical feature)
- Storage cupboards above
- 240V sockets for appliances
You’ll find the layout efficient, making good use of the available space while providing all essential cooking facilities.
Does It Have A Proper Bathroom?
At the rear of the motorhome, you’ll find a spacious bathroom featuring:
- Cassette toilet
- Sink with mirror units
- Separate shower compartment
The separate shower is a particular advantage, keeping the rest of the bathroom dry after use – a feature not always found in motorhomes of this era.
Alde Heating and Power Systems
The Esprit i7870 comes equipped with the Alde heating system, which provides wet central heating throughout the vehicle. This system is generally considered superior to blown air heating, offering more consistent warmth and better humidity control.
The motorhome is fitted with 240V sockets for when you’re connected to mains electricity. The control panel above the habitation door allows you to monitor and manage all onboard systems.
Storage Solutions Throughout
Storage is a particular strength of this motorhome:
- Overhead lockers throughout the living area
- Double wardrobes at the rear
- A substantial garage accessible from both sides
The garage is a standout feature, offering:
- Heated storage (via the vehicle’s radiator system)
- An external shower point
- Adjustable space depending on the height of the rear bed
- Enough room for bicycles, outdoor furniture, or sports equipment
The gas locker accommodates two 11kg bottles, providing ample cooking and heating fuel for extended trips.
Who Should Buy This Dethleffs?
This motorhome is particularly well-suited for:
- Couples who want extra space and occasional accommodation for guests
- Families with up to four members (remembering the seating limitation for travel)
- Extended touring holidays where the extra storage and water capacity are valuable
- Year-round use thanks to the effective heating system and insulation
The limitation to four travelling seats despite six berths means it’s not ideal for larger families who want to travel together, but perfect for couples who occasionally host guests at their destination.
Premium A-Class Alternatives
If you’re interested in the Dethleffs Esprit i7870, you might also want to look at:
Bürstner Elegance Models – Similar premium A-class offering with comparable features such as Bürstner Elegance i810 G: What’s It Like? or Bürstner Elegance i821 G: Should You Buy One?
Dethleffs Advantage – A slightly more compact alternative with many of the same quality features. Find out more about Dethleffs Advantage i5841: The Practical Option.
EuraMobil Activa – Another German-built A-class with excellent build quality. Find out more about Eura Mobil Activa 770 HS: German Engineering at Its Best.
Is This 2007 Esprit Still Worth It?
The Dethleffs Esprit i7870 offers an impressive combination of practical features and comfort that continues to make it relevant despite its age. You’ll appreciate the exceptional water capacity, versatile sleeping arrangements, and substantial storage options.
For couples or small families looking for a premium motorhome with the flexibility to accommodate occasional guests, this vehicle deserves serious consideration. The 4,500kg weight means you’ll need the appropriate licence, but in return, you get a motorhome that doesn’t compromise on space or facilities.
The separate shower, adjustable rear bed, and heated garage are particularly thoughtful features that enhance the usability of this well-designed motorhome. While newer models might offer more modern technology, the fundamental design and build quality of the Esprit i7870 continue to make it a desirable option in the pre-owned market.
Do you have a motorhome to sell? Call us on 01283 240237 or simply enter your reg number here to sell your motorhome!
