Hornby R30031

Tooling

Hornby introduced an updated version of its OO gauge British Rail Class 87 electric locomotive in 2023. This release built upon the 2018 full retooling but incorporated modern digital standards and refinements to detailing. The Class 87 remains a key subject for modellers interested in West Coast Main Line operations during the BR and sectorisation eras, as well as later privatisation liveries.

Tooling Features

• Construction: High-detail plastic bodyshell with diecast chassis for strength and weight.
• Detailing: Factory-fitted separate parts including handrails, lamp irons, jumper cables, roof electrical gear, radio antenna, sprung buffers, and bufferbeam detailing packs. Cab interiors feature seats and instrument detail. Glazing is flush, and wheels are chemically blackened for realism.
• Pantograph: Brecknell Willis high-speed type, poseable but unpowered.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: Centrally mounted 5-pole motor with twin flywheels for smooth operation.
• Drive: All-wheel drive and all-wheel pickup for reliable performance.
• Weighting: Diecast chassis provides excellent adhesion.
• Lighting: Directional headlights and tail lights, plus cab lighting.

DCC Capability

The 2023 upgrade is DCC Ready with a 21-pin socket, improving compatibility with modern decoders. Space is provided for a 15x11mm speaker for sound installation, making sound upgrades straightforward.

Reviews & Commentary

Initial reviews praised the move to a 21-pin socket and the retention of high-quality detailing from the 2018 tooling. Running performance remains smooth thanks to the twin-flywheel drive and diecast chassis. Some community feedback noted that while the upgrade was incremental rather than revolutionary, it addressed digital compatibility concerns and kept the model competitive in the premium electric locomotive market.

Media & Community Feedback

Video reviews and forum discussions highlighted the ease of decoder and sound installation, as well as the model’s strong haulage capability. Enthusiasts appreciated the accurate liveries and fine detail, though some questioned the initial price point before later discounts.

Interesting Notes

• This upgrade focused on electronics and minor refinements rather than a full tooling redesign.
• The 21-pin socket future-proofs the model for advanced DCC and sound systems.

Class & Prototype

• Class: British Rail Class 87
• Traction: Electric
• Built: 1973-1975
• Total Built: 36

• Running Number: 87009
• Name: City of Birmingham

The British Rail Class 87 represented BR's most successful express electric locomotive, with 36 built at Crewe Works 1973-1975 for West Coast Main Line services. Delivering 5,000hp continuously through revolutionary body-mounted traction motors with Flexicoil suspension, these Bo-Bo electrics hauled premier Anglo-Scottish expresses at 110mph for three decades. Named to celebrate Anglo-Scottish connections, the class served from Electric Scot inauguration in 1974 until Virgin's final service in December 2006. Twenty-one locomotives exported to Bulgaria continue freight operations, whilst 87002 Royal Sovereign remains UK's only operational example. Available as Hornby OO gauge and Dapol N gauge models in multiple liveries spanning BR Blue through InterCity Swallow to Virgin red.

Operator & Livery

• Operator: British Rail
• Livery: -
• 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.