Andre, the LC+ Mikado you posted is definitely "traditional" size. It's smaller than a 736 Berkshire, maybe even close to 3/16" scale with O-gauge wheel spacing. That being said, I think it's a good looking and well-built loco that should run great on sharp toy-train curves. The LionChief Hudsons, Pacifics, and Berkshires are traditionally sized, i.e., smaller than 1/4" scale. The steam switchers, Camelback, and most of the diesels are scale or near-scale sized.
Your friend should carefully consider HOW he is going to run his trains. Unlike the original LionChief Plus, LC+ 2.0 locos don't come with an individual hand-held remote. So given current supply constraints, you have to either buy the LionChief "Universal Remote," or run your loco with a phone app. In my personal experience, a sample size of one, I found my original LionChief Plus was tamer / more mellow and easier to control (unless you're lucky enough to already have a Legacy system, in which case LC Plus 2.0 runs great.) YMMV.
