PRR S1 comparison

I'll take that as a NO!

Looking into getting one that will probably spend some time under a glass case so looks and detail most important here.

In that case the choice is 3rd Rail without a doubt.

Thanks for the info.

I like my 3rd Rail loco.........

Bonus it runs well too!!!

I should give a little more information.  I have personally seen and run the Lionel and 3rd Rail models.  I haven't seen the MTH and I don't own any of them. 

The 3rd Rail version is a gorgeous model.  As a runner it is smooth and it has 3rd Rail's great toothed belt "silent drive" system with a big Pittman motor.  It has a QSI reversing board with QSI sound (similar to MTH's original Proto Sounds).  The smoke unit is a Seuthe and does not put out a lot of smoke if that is your thing.  The loco works well on a flat layout but there are no traction tires so it will not pull a long train up a grade.

The Lionel model looks good but not as good as the 3rd Rail.  It's diecast details are "thicker" than the fine brass of the 3rd Rail.  The Lionel pilot rides higher above the rails than 3rd Rail's.  Side by side the Lionel looks funny.  The Lionel loco has TMCC, Odyssey cruise control and Railsounds 4.  The sound is really good but it only chuffs 2 times for every driver revolution.  Since this is a duplex, it should really have 8 chuffs per driver revolution.  The Lionel runs smoothly, is very heavy and has traction tires so it can pull a hefty train up and down hills.

The 3rd Rail loco can be upgraded to TMCC with cruise control using Electric Railroad components and the sound board is available from Lionel to add to the 3rd Rail model, too.

Hope this helps you out,

Bob

AMCDave,

Your 3rd. Rail locomotive and tender are beautiful!!!!!

Ralph

Thank you all again.  I really do like 3rd Rail products too.

More and more with each I buy!