Compass launched the Omega back in the 1980s, and it made its final appearance in 2014. That version only lasted one season, but they can still be found on the forecourts.
There were four models in the last range, two with fixed-bed caravan layouts, one with fixed single beds, and the two-berth, end-washroom model we look at here. Now, 10 years on, how well have these vans survived? Does the build quality still live up to expectations?
Model history
The four models in the Omega range provided layouts that were popular at the time. The large end washrooms included a circular shower cubicle and ample floorspace.
Although they were very well equipped, these tourers were still reasonably light weight.
Offering a typical 2 berth caravan layout, the 482 came with an end washroom, a spacious front lounge, and a central kitchen with a dresser opposite.
Of the four floorplans, the 482 proved particularly popular, with its generous interior and good overhead locker storage attracting interest from buyers.
Standard fittings included an exterior mains socket, wet locker and barbecue point, while a radio/CD player and a microwave were also part of the high-quality spec.
The glass fibre front panel had a large front locker for more storage. At the rear, the one-piece panel was in GRP.
Over time, these can both fade unless they are treated with the occasional car wax.
Despite being a decade old, the Compass featured here was in excellent condition and could still offer couples on tour comfortable caravanning. This is helped by the fact that the lounge seating was of excellent quality, with luxurious upholstery providing superb support.
Price checker
Even though there weren’t that many Omegas manufactured, they still turn up on dealers’ forecourts. We spotted quite a few, including this 482.
We checked out several other 482s and found one priced at £12,885 and another on for £11,995, but ours, at £11,495 and with a fairly new motor mover fitted, was the cheapest. For the rest of the range, you can expect to pay:
- 540: £13,495-£13,999
- 550: £13,595-£14,995
- 574: £14,995-£15,740
What to look out for in a Compass Omega 482 (2014)
- Fading/cracking in GRP panels
- Delamination in floor
- Signs of damp around door
- Wallboard tape peeling away
- Evidence of damp around the top of the front window
- Cracks on rear panel
Alternative models to a Compass Omega 482 (2014)
There are some other good models on the market to consider from different makes of caravan. Take the Swift Challenger 480 SE (2014) – this tourer offers an excellent spec, which includes Alde heating, and generally offers brilliant quality.
Then there’s the Bailey Unicorn Seville Series 4 (2018)
Take a look at our best used caravan guide to see more of our top pre-owned picks too.
Verdict on the Compass Omega 482 (2014)
It’s a shame that the Compass Omega was short-lived, as they were highly desirable among fans of traditional décor.
The GRP panels on this 482 were looking a little dull, but otherwise, the exterior was in very good order. The alloys were in good condition, too.
The lounge seating was still smart and the kitchen had been well cared for. The washroom was spacious, and the wardrobe offered excellent storage.
There were signs of previous damp near the door, but the Omega was now clearly dry.
Competitively priced at less than £12,000, this 482 would make a good first-time buy or a very reasonable upgrade.
Technical spec of the Compass Omega 482 (2014)
- Berths: 2
- MTPLM: 1318kg
- MiRO: 1194kg
- Payload: 124kg
- Internal length: 4.80m
- Width: 2.26m
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