Hornby R3365

Tooling

Hornby introduced a significant upgrade to its Class 91 tooling in 2013, replacing the original 1990 design with a more refined model aimed at modern standards. This release coincided with renewed interest in East Coast Main Line operations during the post-privatisation era, covering liveries from East Coast Trains and Virgin Trains East Coast. The 2013 tooling offered improved detailing and digital readiness while retaining affordability for mainstream modellers.

Tooling Features

• Construction: Plastic bodyshell with separately fitted details; lightweight chassis incorporating metal components for rigidity.
• Detailing: Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph (poseable, unpowered), roof electrical equipment, cab interior, flush glazing, and improved underframe detail compared to the 1990 version.
• Working Features: Cosmetic pantograph only; no functional overhead pickup.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: 5-pole motor mounted in one bogie.
• Drive: 4-wheel drive via powered bogie; pickups on power bogie only.
• Weighting: Internal chassis weighting for traction.
• Lighting: No factory-fitted directional or cab lighting.

DCC Capability

The 2013 tooling is DCC Ready with an 8-pin socket. There is no provision for a speaker, making sound installation more challenging without modification.

Liveries Produced

Hornby issued several versions under this tooling, including:

• East Coast Trains (2009–2015), including special editions such as “Flying Scotsman.”
• Virgin Trains East Coast (2015–2018) in red and white branding.

Reviews & Commentary

Contemporary reviews praised the improved body shape and finer detailing compared to the original 1990 tooling. However, criticism focused on the retention of a single-bogie drive and limited electrical features, which lagged behind competing models. Enthusiasts often describe the 2013 version as a “step forward but not a full retool,” suitable for display and moderate layout use. Social media discussions highlight its affordability and ease of DCC conversion, though many modellers awaited a full redesign for enhanced performance.

Interesting Notes

• The 2013 upgrade marked Hornby’s transition toward digital-ready models, bridging the gap between legacy tooling and modern standards.
• Despite improved detailing, the model retained the basic mechanical concept of the original, which limited its appeal to performance-focused modellers.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery