2016 Optima or 2014 Grandee

[Bfc56]

Hi all I was hoping to get some opinions regarding buying dry floor model.  I was just about to pull the trigger on a new 2016 Optima when the hotspring dealer told me he had a 2014 dry floor model Grandee. 

I realize they are different sized tubs but the Grandee would fit our space and is $2,500 less than the Optima.  He told me it was a dry floor model.  I would receive full warranty upon delivery etc. 

Should I be concerned with a model sitting for 2 years?  Also, it is at their wharehouse which isn't open to the public so I have to go on pictures.  Just a little concerned about not being able to see the tub.

From all my research, the Optima and Grandee are very good tubs so any opinions are appreciated.

Thanks

[BullFrogSpasMN]

I always recommend a wet test on a Grandee, I float like crazy in a Grandee but sit very solid in a Vanguard so that small difference in dimensions & water volume can make a big difference imo...good tub though, also make sure they honor full warranty, I believe no matter what the factory warranty starts after 2 years from the serial number date, possibly a very minor detail considering it could even be a "late model" 2014 and none of that would apply, but something to check on and I'm sure you are getting a smokin deal on it anyway...good luck!

[Bfc56]

Thanks, I have asked the dealer to provide the manufacturing date.  Just waiting to hear back.  Good point on the wet test, I will be doing that today.

Cheers!

[Chris_H]

No brainer. Go with the Grandee.

[Spatech_tuo]

No brainer. Go with the Grandee.

With a full warranty the Grandee certainly would be the way to go IMO assuming it does well for you in the wet test.

[Bfc56]

Wet tested the Grandee yesterday and found that I, and my family, did not like the Moto massage.  The concept is neat, but just not for us.  In the end and after all the wet tests, Grandee, Vanguard, Niagara, Chelsee, beachcomber 720 and the Optima is the best choice for my family.  Not only a great tub, but dealer was great as well.  so we put down the deposit and will receive in 4 weeks or so. 

Thank you to everyone for all the advice and guidance during this process.  As many have said on hear, wet testing is critical.  Thanks again

[dlleno]

thanks for sharing your results!. my wife and I wet tested a hot spring "highlife" model back in the 90s and decided it was not deep enough.  We also learned that we are not fans of the recliner type seats, as we tended to float, and they take up a lot of room and get in the way if you like having guests over for a soak.   However we ended up loving the moto massage so we bought the grandee :-)