1987 Airstream 345 Motorhome Vintage Coach Aluminum Bus Class A 34.5'
1987 Airstream 345 Motorhome – Rare Aluminum Coach, Original and Roadworthy
Few brands embody the spirit of American travel quite likeAirstream. Famous for their riveted aluminum trailers, Airstream also ventured into the luxury motorhome market during the late 1970s and 80s. TheAirstream 345represented the pinnacle of that effort: a 35-foot Class A coach that combined aviation-inspired construction with the comforts of home and the commanding presence of a true touring vehicle.
Built on aGeneral Motors P-30 chassis, these coaches were engineered for durability and ease of service. They featured the distinctive Airstream aluminum bodywork, riveted and polished like the company’s famous trailers, ensuring longevity and a look that never goes out of style.
When new, the 345 offeredluxury appointmentsthat rivaled or surpassed many competitors of the era: hardwood cabinetry, plush seating, full galley kitchens, and private sleeping quarters. It was Airstream’s answer to Winnebago and Blue Bird, but with the unmistakable flair of the silver bullet design.
This1987 Airstream 345is a rare surviving example, presented in largely original condition and still mechanically functional. For collectors, enthusiasts, or anyone with a passion for vintage design, this coach represents both an excellent preservation candidate and an opportunity to enjoy a piece of Airstream history.
SpecificationsChassis: GM P-30 heavy-duty platform
Engine: 454 cu in (7.4L) Chevrolet V8.Transmission: Turbo-Hydramatic 400 automatic.Horsepower: approx. 230 hp
Length: 34.5 ft.Width: 8.2 ft.Height: 10.2 ft.GVWR: ~16,500 lbs
Original MSRP (1987): approx. $95,000 (equivalent to over $250,000 today). Fewer than 400 units built annually in the mid-to-late 1980s
Exterior: Classic aluminum body retains its iconic look with nice patina (feel free to leave it as it is or polish for the mirror-like finish). Some dents and a rear right broken window (result of backing up into a fence) are present, but the shell remains structurally solid.
Interior: All original, with period-correct cabinetry, fixtures, and upholstery. Shows age consistent wear with nearly 40 years but offers an authentic time-capsule experience. The only non-original things I noticed is the upgraded led dome-lights and a modern microwave oven.
- Mechanical: Still runs and drives under its own power, remarkable for a coach of this age. Like any vintage RV, it may benefit from maintenance and mechanical refreshing before long trips. However I drove it 500 miles to AZ and back earlier this year without any issues. There is an electric radiator fan installed with thermo-probe. Engine A/C does not work.
- RV Stuff:I haven't had a chance to test all features, because don't have any RV hook-ups on property. The water is running fine and looks like the plumbing has been updated with the plastic tubes. Interior A/C works. Generator was running fine last time I checked, but it didn't started today (might be due to low fuel level).
- Additional Features: Original rear-view camera. Power mirrors. Power seats. Power folding steps. Hydraulic leveling jacks. Towing hitch & trailer brake controller.
Original, unrestored examples of the Airstream 345 are increasingly scarce. Many surviving units have been heavily modified or stripped of their period character. This coach remains largely intact, making it particularly desirable for collectors who value authenticity.
As a restoration project– excellent bones, rare originality, and strong chassis support.As a functional vintage RV– can be enjoyed on the road today while improvements are made.As a collector’s piece– a rare Class A Airstream with historical significance and undeniable style. Can be a cool Burning Man vehicle!The Airstream 345 was never produced in large numbers, and time has only made them rarer. For those who know, this isn’t just an RV — it’s a design statement, a rolling piece of history, and a reminder of when travel itself was the destination.
It looks really cool and at every gas station people turn their heads and take pictures.I bought it 4 years ago with the dream to renovate in mid-century modern style and try RV living. However over time I realized that I didn't have enough time for that and would rather enjoy doing other things.The bus has its flaws (the biggest one is a broken rear window) and requires some TLC, so it is sold as is.Currently registered in AZ and comes with a clean title under my name. Parked in San Diego area, 25 minutes from the airport.Please feel free to ask any questions.- Make: Airstream
- Model: 345
- Year: 1987
- Mileage: 117450
- VIN: 1GBKP37W6H3314072
- Fuel: Gas
- Vehicle Title: Clean Interested? Contact seller!
