Hornby R30171

British Rail Class 110 DMCL E52084 British Rail Blue & Grey

Contents

Tooling

In early 2023 Hornby reintroduced the OO gauge British Rail Class 110 "Calder Valley" DMU with a fully retooled model as part of its Railroad Plus and mainline offerings. Marking a significant update from the original 1982 tooling, this release features enhanced mechanical performance, detailing, and built-in digital readiness—positioning the Class 110 as a modern, user-friendly model for today's enthusiasts.

Available reviews praise this 2023 tooling for delivering excellent detail and smooth running straight from the box. In-depth YouTube reviews highlight the fresh livery application, refined bogie operation, and seamless inclusion of DCC readiness—particularly the lighting and 8-pin socket—while the unchanged motor type and lack of factory-fitted speaker drew minor notes. Hobbyists cite the model's strong balance of quality and value, confirming its appeal across both intermediate and aspiring modellers.

Modelling publications note that the 2023 release brings significant mechanical and cosmetic enhancements over previous RailRoad Plus versions, citing improved detail levels and smoother mechanics. Online forum discussions frequently emphasize the value of a ready-to-run, DCC-equipped DMU at a moderate price point, with many welcoming Hornby's attention to overlooked, provincial multiple units. Layout and review channels report that the Class 110 fits well into Era 6 and Sectorisation-era setups.

The 2023 tooling brings the British Rail Class  110 firmly into the modern era while retaining core mechanical design. Boasting enhanced detailing, full DCC compatibility, and accessible pricing, it stands out as an essential update for OO gauge enthusiasts seeking a reliable and authentic running DMU from the Calder Valley lines.

Detailing: Injection-moulded plastic bodyshells featuring factory-fitted details: coach-end railings, door handles, exhausts, gangway connectors, vents, bufferbeams, and clear glazing. Interiors include painted cab floors, seating, footplate detailing, and underframe components such as battery boxes and air tanks.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: E52084

The British Rail Class 110 represented BRCW's most powerful first-generation DMU, purpose-built for demanding Trans-Pennine routes. Thirty three-car sets (90 vehicles) constructed 1961-1963 featured four Rolls-Royce C6NFLH engines delivering 720 bhp—the highest output of any first-generation unit. Designed specifically to conquer the Calder Valley line's punishing 1 in 45 gradients, Class 110s transformed Leeds-Manchester connectivity from January 1962 through nearly three decades of intensive Trans-Pennine service. The unique inward-facing engine configuration required specialized maintenance facilities, concentrating operations at Bradford Hammerton Street (1961-1984) and Leeds Neville Hill (1984-1991). Following 1983 centre trailer withdrawals, two-car formations achieved 11.2 hp/ton power-to-weight—the highest of any first-generation DMU. Class 150 Sprinter introduction triggered 1987-1991 withdrawals. Five vehicles survive in preservation at East Lancashire Railway (complete three-car set including sole TSL survivor) and Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway (two-car formation). Hornby maintains exclusive worldwide production in OO gauge only.

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.