When I started into model trains for my young family to enjoy them at Christmas, the old stuff was all we had in 1976. The new stuff in1976 was available but so was the postwar stuff.
In all the 40 plus years since I have not seen any reason to trade the old postwar stuff in for the newest, greatest, expensive, and hard to repair new stuff that has paraded into fashion for many, both old and young over the years.
Two major things are one, Cost: new engines cost from a few hundred, to $1000 and now even $2000, at the same time prices of the old postwar stuff is low with most of my engines costing $20 to $40 with a few for $10 and one at $100.
The second thing is train gear must repairable by me. Trains with modern electronics are sensitive to damage by small over voltages and the electronics are not repairable except by replacement of expensive parts if available. This is the same with modern automobiles, flat screen TVs, appliances, stereos and hi fi etc.
I am glad there are a few folks still going into the old stuff and think the hobby is big enough for all of us. The main thing is look over the model train hobby and find out what you like, no matter scale, gauge, price, age or vintage and have enjoyment and fun building and sharing your layout or collection.
Charlie
