Abbey caravans have a long history, and the GTS range was a luxury line-up from the 1970s. The Abbey name was dropped at the end of 2008, and although you’ll see some of these later models on the forecourts, they are few and far between.

For the 2007 season, though, the range was revamped, with improvements including wider bodies. By then, Abbey had also stopped using GRP sides, instead switching to thicker, tougher one-piece aluminium.

Dealer specials based on the Abbey GTS were available from firms such as Michael Jordan Caravans (now part of Marquis). Six layouts were offered for the 2007 season, from a two-berth to a five-berth.

Model history of the Abbey GTS 416

The Abbey GTS 416 layout provided a front lounge, a side kitchen with a single dinette opposite, and a full-width rear washroom. This popular model, which had first emerged in 1995, very quickly proved its worth in Abbey’s sales figures.

The bright interior of the Abbey GTS 416
Bright interior has quality soft furnishings, but look for any sagging in seating

By 2007, the excellent spec included 3kW Truma blown-air heating, alloys, a new battery box, a microwave, a 107-litre fridge and restyled overhead lockers. You also got a Status TV aerial and DVD connections, a dual-fuel four-burner hob and smart corner spotlights.

The large side kitchen offers excellent worktop and overhead locker storage. The side single dinette has a fold-up bunk bed for the fourth berth, while the seating offers good support.

A CD/radio was fitted in the lounge, and an extractor fan in the kitchen. The Abbey also had the receiver for an Al-Ko wheel lock. New, the GTS 416 cost £14,495, just £5000 more than its resale value now.

Alternatives to the Abbey GTS 416

If you are looking for models a few years younger, the 2010 Coachman Pastiche 520/4 offers the same layout and a good spec that would match the Abbey’s.

The end washroom in the Pastiche is a cracker, and there was even an awning warmer in the one we spotted. Priced at about £8995, the Coachman offered excellent value.

Our guide to the best used caravans is also full of excellent suggestions to consider, with vans from brands that include Elddis, Sprite and more.

Alternatively, you could look at a 2007 Ace Jubilee Viceroy, which was not as well-specified as the Abbey, but still a solid tourer, also with a really good rear washroom, for just £7995.

The 2007 Ace Jubilee Viceroy
The 2007 Ace Jubilee Viceroy

Price checker

We had a good search, but these models sell quickly, and they are not seen that often.

However, we found that £9495 for a good dealer example, with a mover fitted, was pretty much the going price. If you’re buying privately, you might scrape in at around the £8495 mark, but you will need to be patient. For the rest of the range, expect to pay:

  • 215 £7995-£8195
  • 418 £8995-£10,995
  • 419 £8395-£9995
  • 420 £8995-£10,895
  • 517 £7995-£8995

What to check for

  • Fading in front GRP panel glass-fibre finish
  • Grazed alloys
  • Electrics all working properly
  • Damp in rear washroom
  • Bubbling wallboard covering
  • Any sagging in upholstery
  • Warping in washroom door

Verdict

The 2007 GTS line-up from Abbey would make a great first tourer. They provide a good spec, excellent washrooms and lots of storage options.

Watch for fading front and rear panels, although these can be given a new lease of life with a bit of elbow grease. Check for damp as always, and if buying privately, check the electrics.

Keep an eye out for valuable extras, such as a motor mover.

The Abbey remains a much sought-after range, ideal for first-timers, with the 416 layout proving especially popular.

  • Looking for a newer model instead? Then be sure to take a look at our guide to the best caravans, where we reveal our standout picks on the market.

Technical spec

  • Price: £9495
  • Berths: 4
  • MTPLM: 1540kg
  • MiRO: 1335kg
  • Payload: 205kg
  • Internal length: 5.42m
  • Width: 2.23m

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