Dapol ND007

British Rail Class 73 73134 British Rail InterCity Executive

Contents

Tooling

Dapol introduced its N gauge model of the British Rail Class 73 electro-diesel locomotive in 2005, expanding its early N gauge range that began in 2003. The Class 73 was a distinctive Southern Region locomotive capable of operating on 650/750V DC third rail or via its onboard diesel engine, making it highly versatile for passenger, freight, and engineering duties. The prototype fleet was built between 1962 and 1967, comprising subclasses 73/0, 73/1, and 73/2, the latter adapted for Gatwick Express services.

Early reviews praised the model's fine detailing, etched components, and working lights, noting it as a significant improvement over older N gauge designs. Performance was generally smooth, though some users reported occasional noise and running issues on tight curves. Later batches improved reliability and added refinements such as darkened wheels. Community feedback on forums and social media highlights the model's popularity and enduring appeal, though some enthusiasts hope for a future re-tool to match modern standards.

The Class 73 was one of Dapol's first N gauge locomotives, alongside the Class 66. Special editions for Gaugemaster and other retailers have become collectible items.

Detailing: Includes cab interior, footplate detail, glazing with wipers, underframe equipment (battery boxes, fuel tanks, sanding gear), and third rail pick-up shoes. Knuckle couplers supplied in accessory pack.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 73134

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.