John, I used 2" high density Styrofoam for the mountain. This was my first attempt at a mountain and we are both pleased at the result.
'For value, I would look for Lionel Heavyweight Santa Fe passenger cars that were done around 2004-2005 and again before 2010. They are not hard to d=find and came in a4-pack, 2-pack, and Station Sounds diner.
