Sterling Caravans were made by the Swift Group at the Cottingham plant, and their ranges – Europa, Elite, Continental and Eccles – offered modern looks and décor.
The Eccles name was one of the best known in caravanning circles and could be traced back to 1919. Sterling was a brand that came about after Swift acquired Sprite Leisure in
1994, which produced Eccles.
Sterling would become a popular choice, and Eccles with its continental style was a particular favourite with caravanners. Modern colours, often grey tones, were used for its furniture and soft furnishings and the spec was usually generous, which can always be welcome when you’re looking for the best used caravans to buy.
With a choice of layouts, including some larger family ones, the 2016 year we are looking at here had some under-the-skin construction improvements. The 2016 range had a new front panel and the option of upgrading the Truma blown air system for Alde. A decent specification included a BBQ point and exterior mains socket as well as a caravan solar panel.
Model history
The 2016 range saw the introduction of the 640 model, which had a big double dinette twin-axle layout. The 640 was a large family tourer for six and offered a spacious front and rear dinette, and a central washroom with separate shower cubicle and wardrobe.
Opposite, the kitchen offered good storage, and spec included a fridge, microwave and dual-fuel oven. In our example, the optional Alde heating had been fitted – as caravan upgrades go, it’s a nice extra to have, especially if you’re a fan of Alde heating.
A spacious interior to relax in is always going to be an important trait in the best six berth caravans. In the case of the 2016 Sterling Eccles 640, the interior was spacious, with the end lounge a great area for children. Lots of overhead locker storage was provided and both lounges had a central chest of drawers fitted.
The 2016 models had no timber framing, and the roofs were now constructed in a tough GRP, hail-resistant finish. Other features included a Vision Plus TV aerial, a locker on the rear nearside, a radio, LED lighting and a sunroof.
In the Eccles range that year, there were eight models to choose from, offering plenty of choice for Eccles buyers.
Price checker
The 640 was only made for one year, and owners tend to hold onto them. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the range:
- 480: £12,988 – £13,499
- 510: £13,995 – £14,595
- 530: £15,495 – £15,995
- 565: £15,195 – £15,995
- 570: £15,999 – £16,495
- 580: £15,599 – £15,999
- 590: £16,595 – £18,195
- 640: £15,995 – £17,995
What to look out for in a 2016 Sterling Eccles 640
When you’re thinking of buying a used caravan, there will always be important checks to carry out. In the case of the Eccles 640, you should look for:
- Fading of the front panel
- Peeling graphics
- Damp around windows
- Fading of the GRP sink
- Scuffing of the tyres and alloys
- Upholstery support
Verdict
The 2016 Sterling Eccles offers a good range of layouts, with a choice of fixed beds and an end-washroom couple’s model.
Our 640 was in very good condition, though no mover was fitted. The optional Alde heating is a good feature, as is the space and general storage, plus the smart looks outside and in. For the money, this 640 would make a great family caravan.
Technical specification of the 2016 Sterling Eccles 640
- Berths: 6
- MTPLM: 1764kg
- MiRO: 1584kg
- Payload: 180kg
- Shipping length: 7.98m
- Width: 2.24m
Alternative models
A 2014 Swift Challenger Sport 640 has the same layout as the Eccles, but not quite the same spec, and a more traditional feel inside. From around £14k, the Sport is a great family tourer. A 2015 Elddis Avante 564 is another option; it’s built on a single axle and not as long as the Eccles, with four berths. Prices range from £12,995 to £13,595.
Or how about the 2019 Sprite Super Quattro DB? It’s a roomy six-berth which could give you the 8ft-width you might want in a family tourer, and it’s one that I think provides good value for money.
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