Bachmann 32-287B

British Rail Class 101 M51198 British Rail Blue & Grey

Contents

Tooling

The Bachmann Branchline OO tooling for the British Rail Class 101 "Met-Cam" DMU was introduced in 2014 as part of Bachmann's 25th-anniversary product launch in Europe, marking the first time the Metro-Cammell–built Class 101 was accurately modelled in OO at this level of quality.

Originally built by Metro-Cammell between 1956 and 1959, the Class 101 units became iconic first-generation DMUs on British Rail. Bachmann's 2014 release celebrated this legacy with accurate prototypes and high-quality detailing, aimed at both enthusiasts and layout modellers.

The tooling received strong praise from magazines, forums and video reviewers for its accuracy, fine detailing and smooth running. Enthusiasts highlighted the realistic interiors, lighting features and ease of DCC installation. Social media and RMweb discussions noted the improved coupling system and reliable performance on tight curves, while YouTube reviewers commended the model's finish and operational realism, especially when fitted with sound. Overall, the release was widely regarded as a long-awaited and high-quality representation of the Class 101.

Overall, the Bachmann Branchline Class 101 Met-Cam OO tooling is a significant asset for first-generation DMU enthusiasts—offering high fidelity to prototype, robust running across small radii, modular DCC/sound options, and a faithful representation of this iconic British DMU in multiple eras.

Detailing: Injection-moulded bodyshell with separate factory-fitted detail parts including coach-end railings, handrails, exhausts, vestibules and underbody pipework. Painted bufferbeams, chemically-blackened wheels, glazing, seating, clear window-wipers, cab interior with speedo and footplate details. Screw-link couplings included, NEM coupling pockets allowing swap to tension-lock or conductive coupling, supported by drawbar coupling between vehicles.

Bachmann's Description & Specifications

Revealed as part of our Autumn 2022 British Railway Announcements, the iconic Class 101 DMU returns to the Bachmann Branchline.

Our model of the Class 101 two-car Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) captures the character of these first generation DMUs to a tee. Featuring detailed bodywork and interiors, the bogies have been finely rendered and all of the chassis-mounted equipment is present and correct too. All of these details are highlighted by the exquisite livery application, using BR-specification colours and authentic numbers and logos to produce a multiple unit fit for any British Rail fleet.

This two-car unit features a conductive coupling between the two vehicles meaning that a single DCC decoder is required for use on DCC, whilst space is provided for a speaker should you wish to fit sound to your model. Easier still, choose our SOUND FITTED model and you can enjoy realistic sounds on both Analogue and DCC straight out of the box.

MODEL FEATURES:

  • Bachmann Branchline OO Scale
  • Era 7
  • Pristine BR Blue & Grey Livery
  • 2-Car Unit comprising DMBS No. M51198 and DTCL No. M56337
  • Destination Blinds for Chester and Manchester
  • Accessory Pack NEM Coupling Pockets
  • Powerful 5 Pole Motor with Flywheel
  • Sprung Buffers
  • Directional Lighting and Illuminated Destination Blinds
  • Interior Lighting
  • Ready to Accept a Speaker
  • Equipped with a 21 Pin DCC Decoder Socket – recommended Decoder item No. 36-557
  • Length 495mm

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: M51198

The British Rail Class 101 was Metro-Cammell's most successful first-generation DMU, with over 700 vehicles built 1956-1959 serving across Britain for 47 years until 2003. Powered by twin 150hp BUT AEC or Leyland diesel engines, these distinctive units operated from Tyneside to Scottish Highlands, dominating Birmingham's Cross-City Line for 35 years. Comprehensive 1970s-1980s refurbishment programmes extended their operational lives dramatically. The type carried every major BR livery including green, blue, blue/grey, white/blue, Strathclyde orange, and Network SouthEast schemes. With 41 vehicles preserved and comprehensive model availability from Bachmann (OO), Graham Farish (N gauge), and Hornby, the Class 101 remains essential for depicting authentic British branch line and suburban operations from the late 1950s through early 2000s.

Operator & Livery

  • Operator: British Rail
  • Livery: Blue & Grey
  • Era: 7 - British Rail Blue TOPS

British Rail (1965-1997) transformed Britain's railways through revolutionary modernisation, introducing the iconic double arrow logo, Rail Blue livery, and business sectorisation. BR pioneered high-speed rail with the InterCity 125 and Advanced Passenger Train, electrified major routes, and created profitable divisions like InterCity and Network SouthEast. From steam succession through diesel and electric development to privatisation preparation, British Rail's diverse locomotive fleet, multiple livery schemes, and operational scenarios provide unparalleled variety for railway modellers across all scales and periods.