Review by Justin Sobeck/photo by Pamela Varney
Bachmann’s revised N-scale models come decorated in the passenger carrier’s current Phase VI scheme, and feature car-specific details (café or coach), with a great stainless-steel finish and precision graphics, lit interiors (which are also correct by type), and see-through tinted windows (the cars glow nicely, an improvement versus the overly radiant illumination of their predecessor models from the 1990s). The lighting is flicker-free on both DCC and DC operation, and the non-directionally lit Marker Lights on both ends of the cars are a positive aspect of these reproductions, and their red glow is aimed so as not to be apparent unless one is looking only at the end of the train. Underbody detail is great, all the modern passenger car boxes and appliances are captured in good relief under both sides of the car — dual HVAC units, battery boxes and chargers, air tanks, 26C rack and transformers are all there. The 1:160 models come ensconced in Bachmann’s oversized jewel cases with clear plastic nests inside, along with warranty paperwork and some additional details for use.
ABOVE: Bachmann’s N-scale Budd Amfleet I passenger car models come assembled, are scale-length, include illuminated interior, smooth-rolling wheels, and knuckle couplers. These three examples wear Amtrak’s Phase VI livery.
This review appeared in the