2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB vs 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS
Before committing to the 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB or the 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS, it pays to understand exactly where each one shines and where it falls short.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB | 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Class A | Class A | — |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 | Tie |
| Length | 43 ft | 31 ft | — |
| Width | 8.5 ft | 8 ft | — |
| Height | 11 ft | 11 ft | — |
| Dry Weight | 32,800 lbs | 18,400 lbs | — |
| GVWR | 37,700 lbs | 21,100 lbs | — |
| Sleeping Capacity | 6 | 7 | 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS |
| Fresh Water | 88 gal | 68 gal | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Gray Water | 42 gal | 51 gal | 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS |
| Black Water | 50 gal | 49 gal | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Fuel Capacity | 147 gal | 98 gal | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Horsepower | 377 hp | 326 hp | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Engine | Cummins ISL 8.9L | Chevrolet 6.0L V8 | — |
| Slide-Outs | 3 | 2 | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Solar | 500 W | 200 W | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| Battery | 100 Ah | 300 Ah | 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS |
| Inverter | 2,500 W | 1,500 W | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
| MSRP | $295,000 | $299,000 | 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB |
Detailed Comparison
Before committing to the 2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB or the 2024 Thor Challenger 37DS, it pays to understand exactly where each one shines and where it falls short.
Starting with size, the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB measures 43.0 ft long and tips the scales at 32,800 lbs dry weight. The Thor Challenger 37DS comes in at 31.0 ft with a dry weight of 18,400 lbs. That gives the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB roughly 12.0 extra feet of length.
The Fleetwood Fortis 36DB sleeps 6 while the Thor Challenger 37DS accommodates 7. Slide-outs play a role in livability: the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB has 3 and the Thor Challenger 37DS has 2.
For boondocking enthusiasts, tank sizes matter. Fresh water capacity goes to the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB at 88 gallons versus 68 gallons. Solar-wise, you get 500W on the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB and 200W on the Thor Challenger 37DS. Battery banks are 100 Ah and 300 Ah.
At $295,000 MSRP for the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB and $299,000 for the Thor Challenger 37DS, the Fleetwood Fortis 36DB saves you $4,000. With only a 1% price difference, the choice comes down to features rather than cost.
If you're traveling with a family, look for the model with more sleeping positions and better storage. Boondockers: look at the fresh water capacity and solar/battery systems — they determine how long you can stay out. For the full-time RV lifestyle, every gallon of tank capacity and every inch of counter space counts.
The numbers tell one story, but the feel of a floor plan is personal. Schedule a walkthrough before you decide.
Individual Overviews
2024 Fleetwood Fortis 36DB
- Category: Class A
- Length: 43 ft
- Weight: 32,800 lbs
- Sleeps: 6
- MSRP: $295,000
2024 Thor Challenger 37DS
- Category: Class A
- Length: 31 ft
- Weight: 18,400 lbs
- Sleeps: 7
- MSRP: $299,000