Hornby R3146

British Rail Class 101 W50318 British Rail Blue & Grey

Contents

Tooling

In 2008, Hornby reissued and upgraded the OO gauge British Rail Class 101 "Met-Cam" DMU, labelled under its RailRoad range. This edition built on Lima’s 1997 tooling, enhancing mechanical performance and electrics while introducing a proper DCC-ready chassis—marking a notable evolution in the tooling’s history.

The upgrade was widely praised for its improved running qualities and DCC readiness while retaining the accurate body shape inherited from Lima. Reviewers highlighted the crisp paint finish and reliable mechanism, though some noted the basic interiors and lack of factory lighting beyond directional lamps. Online forums and YouTube channels showcase popular modifications, including interior detailing, lighting upgrades, and coupling replacements. Enthusiasts frequently compare this version favourably against later Bachmann releases for its affordability and ease of enhancement, making it a popular choice for both collectors and modders.

Detailing: Retains the accurate body and crisp Metro-Cammell detailing from the Lima original, including moulded glazing, battery boxes, and engine pipework. Cab interiors and footplate are also well represented. Improved painting quality and window wipers add finesse. The tooling supports various marker light formations, including four-light early-batch variants used for specific liveries.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: W50318

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: 6 - British Rail Blue Pre-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.