GMC Coach, manufactured by GMC Truck and Coach Division
There are many model numbers of GM coach. As I have not operated anything but the 4108s and the 4905s, I will not comment on other models, other that to say that I have not heard many negative statements.
The 4108 is a 35 foot 41 passenger unit that has a two stage elevated floor. As you step onto the coach and when you are standing beside the driver, there are 3 additional steps up that you must take to reach the main passenger area. This innovation allowed the baggage compartment (four doors) underneath to be considerably larger than that of the MCI of equivalent age. The operator sits lower to the ground but has good visibility, and is three steps away from ground level.
The motor (Detroit Diesel) sit crossways at the rear and is connected to the transmission by a special housing that permits the transmission to line up to the rear end on an angle. The motor itself is fairly easy to work on as the motor is offset rearward about 30 degrees from center.
The 4905 40-foot 47 passenger coach is the big brother to the 4108 and about the only difference is the length of the unit. The 4905 could be equipped with a pusher axle that was accessible by opening the last "baggage" compartment. Others were just a two axle unit equipped with 3 baggage compartments.
In my experience with the 4905 2-axle coach, I have found this unit to be one of the best handling buses on uneven paved roads. Their stability on icy and snow covered roads was excellent. When these units are properly maintained they are a pleasure to drive, offering a soft floating sense of ride. They have a different steering set up than the older MCIs and are not prone to wandering about. I found a sense of security in the operator's area without getting claustrophobia. The 4108 has much the same characteristics, however, its ride is not as smooth due to the shorter wheelbase.
Prevost Car, Inc. of Montreal, Canada.
Again, my experience with anything other that the H3-40 and H3-45 is limited. The H model is the epitome of luxury and comfort. The cost is out of sight for most individuals as these units are in the $400,000. range for a shell. All I can say is that if you get a chance to drive one, take it. They exude driver comfort, and their ride is beyond compare.
