1999 Buccaneer Elan 15

1999 Buccaneer Elan 15

Just before production of this luxury range moved to the Elddis factory, Buccaneers were produced near York, at an old RAF airfield (the offices were the former control tower).

Hand-built and using Italian oak veneers, these tourers oozed charm and luxury. So 19 years on, does this old charmer still have what it takes to tempt a buyer?

The exterior was in good condition. The thick-gauge aluminium sides were dent free, and the GRP front and one-piece back panels showed no signs of cracking. The roof was also a Grp-moulded panel.

The Buccaneer, like the Abbey, is built on an Al-ko chassis, but comes with a Superpitch connection for direct water/waste, a barbecue point and exterior mains socket. A large front locker and sturdy stainless steel grab handles complete the picture.

The extra length over the Abbey means the Buccaneer feels especially spacious, although it weighs in at an MTPLM of 1550kg.

Pitch and set-up

Abbey GTS Vogue 215 Buccaneer Elan 15

Both are on an Al-ko chassis, but neither has a mover fitted. The Abbey comes with alloys, the Buccaneer with straight steel rims.

Neither model has heavy-duty corner steadies, but both have a sizeable front gas locker, with the Abbey having a drawbar light to help you find the locks at night.

The Abbey’s one-piece GRP sides have dulled with age, but it also had GRP front and rear full-height moulded panels.

The Abbey’s plus points included a Status TV aerial, a wet locker and a Heki roof vent, but the Buccaneer had none of these.

All service points on the Buccaneer are on the offside, including the Super-pitch fittings. Both models are fitted with

AKS hitch stabilisers.

The Abbey would be easier to pitch, with its more compact length and lighter weight, so it comes out on top here.