Dapol 4D-006-020S

British Rail Class 73 73136 British Rail InterCity Executive

Contents

Tooling

Dapol introduced its OO gauge model of the British Rail Class 73 electro-diesel locomotive in 2016. The Class 73 is a unique dual-mode locomotive capable of operating from the Southern Region’s 650/750V DC third rail or via an onboard diesel engine, making it versatile for both electrified and non-electrified routes. Built between 1962 and 1967, the prototype was primarily used in the Southern Region, with many units later appearing in a wide range of liveries under various operators.

The Dapol Class 73 has generally been praised for its high level of detail, accurate body shape, and smooth running qualities. Features such as etched grilles, sprung buffers, and lighting functions have been highlighted positively. However, some reviewers noted occasional issues with bogie articulation on uneven track, leading to derailments in certain conditions. Social media and video reviews often commend the model's slow-speed performance and realistic lighting, while some early batches were criticized for minor lighting configuration errors, later corrected in subsequent releases.

The tooling allows for both JA and JB variants, enabling accurate representation of early and later builds. Accessory packs include optional snowploughs and bufferbeam detailing parts for customization. Later production runs introduced improved lighting arrangements and factory sound-fitted options.

Detailing: Separately fitted handrails, etched metal side and roof grilles, fan detail, lamp irons, jumper cables, and bufferbeam detailing packs. Glazing includes flush-fitting windows with interior cab detail.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 73136

The British Rail Class 73 electro-diesel represents one of Britain's most versatile and longest-serving locomotive classes, designed in the early 1960s to solve the Southern Region's third-rail gap problem in goods yards. With dual 1,600hp electric and 600hp diesel modes (1,600hp diesel in Class 73/9 rebuilds), these Bo-Bo locomotives served prestigious duties from Gatwick Express to Venice Simplon Orient Express, and now operate Caledonian Sleeper services in Scotland. Of 49 built (6 Class 73/0, 43 Class 73/1), 39 survive with approximately 22 still operational, making them among British Rail's most enduring designs spanning over 60 years of continuous service.

Operator & Livery

British Rail InterCity was the premium express passenger brand that operated from 1966 to 1997, transforming long-distance rail travel across Britain. Initially launched as a marketing brand for high-speed services, InterCity became an autonomous business sector in 1982 under the sectorisation programme, operating profitable express services from London to Scotland, Wales, the West Country, and extensive cross-country routes.

The brand pioneered revolutionary rolling stock including the iconic InterCity 125 HST (High Speed Train) from 1976, which achieved 125mph operations on existing infrastructure, and the electric InterCity 225 sets from 1989, capable of 140mph but limited to 125mph in service. InterCity also developed the ground-breaking Advanced Passenger Train (APT) with tilting technology that influenced modern high-speed trains worldwide.

Distinguished by its evolving livery schemes - from Rail Blue and Grey through the sophisticated Executive livery with dark grey upper bodies and red stripes - InterCity became synonymous with quality, speed, and reliability. All day services featured buffet cars and the majority operated at 100mph or above, making British Rail one of the world's most intensive high-speed operators.

The brand was divided among multiple operators during railway privatisation in the 1990s, but its technical innovations, operational excellence, and commercial principles continue influencing modern rail services. InterCity remains hugely popular with railway modellers, with extensive ranges of locomotives and coaching stock available in all major scales from manufacturers like Hornby, Bachmann, and Heljan.