A rare opportunity presented itself recently. The new Bachmann 009 Baguley-Drewry sent to BRM for review, found its way to me. Which gives me the chance to compare it to the kit-built version I made years ago.
The first thing to mention, is that they are slightly different machines. Bachmann's is the 70hp loco, while the Narrow Planet kit represents the 99hp variant. Basicaly, the bonnet is longer.
Apart from that, you can see the family resemblance.
The RTR model is very nice. A diecast body gives it plenty of weight, and on test at All Pally in my cake cover layout, it ran very, very sweetly.
Having said that, the kit, a mix of 3D printed and etched parts, stands up perfectly well to it. The main difference is paint, perhaps I'm not as good as the Chinese factory, but it's not far off. Running is as good as the RTR model, thanks to the TomyTec chassis underneath.
Cost? The kit (when available) is £40 plus chassis. RRP on the RTR version is £119.95, but this will be discounted. So, even allowing for the chassis, this kit would be a bit cheaper, but of course, you still have to assemble it. Not a difficult job by any means, but if you are scared of modelling, then that will be a hurdle.
Mind you, if you have a suitable layout, you'll need one of each, so go for it!
A full review of Bachmann's loco appears in the April issue of BRM.
2 comments:
The Narrow Planet kit is designed for the Kato chassis, that's what mine is on. Are you sure yours is on a Tomytec?
Good point - it may be Kato. The build was a loooong while ago. However, it is a very smooth runner.
Post a Comment