1972 Dodge Balboa Motorhome
$27,000
Year
1972Make
DodgeModel
B-SeriesOdometer
32,000Engine
360 ci. V8Fuel Type
gasolineTransmission
automaticDrivetrain
RWDVIN / Chassis #
-Seller
Freedom VesselLocation
Cardiff, CATitle Status
cleanOffered by Freedom Vessel out of Cardiff, California, this 1972 Dodge Balboa motorhome is priced at $27,000 and presents as a rare, 18-foot fiberglass vintage camper with an indicated 32,000 original miles. Acquired from what appears to be the original owner family in Nebraska, this Balboa was reportedly used for short fishing and camping trips and remains exceptionally well preserved, combining originality with thoughtful updates like a 100W Renogy solar system, a 12V refrigerator, and vinyl plank flooring. Powered by a Dodge 360 V8 with factory dash air and cruise control, and equipped with its original Onan generator showing just 39 hours, this coach stands out as a time-capsule-grade example of one of the rarest American-built fiberglass motorhomes.
- California-built rarity: The Dodge Balboa was produced in extremely limited numbers in Costa Mesa, California by Jensen Marine, with estimates suggesting fewer than 900 units ever built. This example is believed to be number 835, making it a genuinely scarce piece of American RV and marine-influenced manufacturing history.
- Big-block-era power: Motivation comes from a Dodge 360 cubic-inch V8 paired with an automatic transmission, delivering the torque and simplicity expected from early-’70s Mopar powertrains. Factory dashboard air conditioning, cruise control, and a recent tune-up and inspection by a mobile mechanic support its reputation as a strong-running and well-kept drivetrain.
- Fiberglass shell, preserved and polished: The 18-foot fiberglass body has recently been polished and presents as complete, clean, and well cared for. Exterior features include a roof-mounted ladder for luggage rack access, dual fuel tanks, and period-correct trim, with no obvious missing or damaged components noted by the seller.
- Time-capsule interior with smart updates: Inside, the Balboa features a twin-bed layout with upper bunk, double sink, stove, oven, bathroom with shower, marine recirculating flush toilet, and a Suburban propane heater, all reported to be very clean. Updates include vinyl plank flooring, a 12V refrigerator, and an added 100W Renogy solar system that enhances off-grid usability without erasing the vintage character.
- Lightly used and carefully kept: The odometer shows 32,000 miles and is believed to be original, supported by the vehicle’s reported single-family Nebraska ownership and overall condition. Freedom Vessel notes the original Onan generator shows only 39 hours, and represents it as a well-preserved collector-grade motorhome.
This Balboa offers a rare mix of genuine scarcity, preserved originality, and usable upgrades that make it both collectible and functional. With its fiberglass construction, Mopar V8 power, ultra-low generator hours, and unusually clean interior systems, it stands apart from the sea of mass-produced vintage motorhomes. For the buyer looking for something that draws a crowd, tells a story, and still supports real weekend travel, this Balboa delivers in a way few vintage campers can.
Chassis, Powertrain & Drivetrain
Chassis, Powertrain & Drivetrain
- Dodge 360 cubic-inch V8
- Automatic transmission
- Factory dashboard air conditioning
- Factory cruise control
- Recent tune-up and inspection by mobile mechanic
- Dual fuel tanks
- Odometer reads 32,000 miles (believed original)
Coach Construction & Exterior
- 18-foot fiberglass motorhome body
- Built by Jensen Marine in Costa Mesa, California
- Believed to be unit number 835 of approximately 900 produced
- Recently polished exterior
- Ladder for luggage rack access
- Period-correct trim and fittings
Electrical & Energy Systems
- Original Onan generator
- Generator shows 39 hours
- Added 100W Renogy solar system
- 12V electrical system
- Shore power capability
Interior Layout & Amenities
- Twin bed layout
- Upper bunk area
- Double sink
- Stove and oven
- Suburban propane heater
- Bathroom with shower
- Marine recirculating flush toilet
- Hot water heater warmed by engine or 110V
Interior Condition & Updates
- Very clean cabinets and fixtures
- Vinyl plank flooring
- 12V refrigerator
- Original layout preserved
Fluids, Tanks & Capacities
- Fresh water capacity: approximately 40 gallons
Wheels & Tires
- Tires with good tread and no visible cracking per seller
- Tires likely aged
- Spare tire present but currently without air
This rare and well-preserved 1972 Dodge Balboa motorhome is available now from Freedom Vessel in Cardiff, California — contact the seller to learn more or to make an offer.
Contact Seller
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