I'm not sure why MTH used a bay window caboose with this set when one of their nice CA-1s would have been a nice addition. Plus, UP didn't have bay window cabooses until much later. Regardless, it's a nice set and as you mentioned, the Premier cars are well worth $20/piece. After all, when spending money for a locomotive, why not get the cars for a few dollars more? I think MTH has Lionel beat in that matter, not trying to start a war about the two though.
The MTH FEF sounds great and looks to be an excellent runner. I like the detail and the smoke. Beautiful model. Another thing I like-a correct cab number for an FEF-3. MTH did a nice job..
Kudos to them for bringing us such a nice model. Thank you. Hope you enjoy it Lee!