Set of six 1:160 Scale Coaches produced in Amtrak livery. These models feature lots of expertly applied details as based on the prototypes, a high level of body detail and excellent running characteristics.

Features

• 1:160 Scale Model
• This model is best suited to layouts based around USA
• This model is decorated in Amtrak company markings

Contents

• 6 x Kato Coaches

Details

The Superliner is a type of bi-level intercity passenger carriage used by Amtrak, the national rail passenger operator of the United States. These cars were introduced to replace older single-level equipment on many of Amtrak’s long-distance services, particularly in the western United States. The design was based on the Budd Hi-Level coaches previously operated by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway on its famous El Capitan trains.

Between 1975 and 1981, Pullman-Standard built 284 Superliner I cars, marking the final passenger coaches produced by the company. A second generation, Superliner II, was later constructed by Bombardier Transportation, with 195 cars built between 1991 and 1996.

Several different car types were produced, including coaches, sleeping cars, dining cars and lounge cars. Most passenger accommodation is located on the upper level, which features large windows on both sides. The well-known Sightseer Lounge cars include dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows on the upper level, offering panoramic views of the passing scenery. Boarding takes place on the lower level, with passengers accessing the upper deck via a central staircase.

The first Superliner I cars entered service in February 1979, with deliveries continuing until 1981. Their first permanent assignment was the Chicago–Seattle Empire Builder in October 1979. The later Superliner II cars, delivered from 1993, allowed Amtrak to retire remaining Hi-Level equipment and expand Superliner use. Due to tunnel clearances, however, these tall bi-level cars cannot operate on the Northeast Corridor.