I've finally got round to doing my review of the Hornby Class 50. I acquired 50045 'Achilles', a Network SouthEast example (R2350), at the Romford Model Railway Exhibition. It is DCC Fitted and a weathered edition, but second-hand, so I was able to snap it up for £70.
Packaging
The 'Hoover' comes in the slightly older Hornby packaging, so polystyrene with a piece of plastic on the front of the loco. I feel like this is more reassuring than their new 'ice block' style, while still being about as light. However, the two sections of polystyrene can fall apart quite easily.
Model/Detail
The modelling of the Class 50 is absolutely outstanding. As the loco is second-hand, I believe the detailing pack has been added - pipes and all make it look amazing! A great addition is the moving fan on top, which rotates at a realistic scale speed when the train is moving. There are also sprung buffers and opening cab doors for anyone that's interested. I have seen a Network SouthEast Class 50 in real life and the livery looks absolutely exquisite. Weathering makes the loco look like it has been in service lots as well.
Performance
The performance of this loco is amazing. When going extremely slowly, - even over points - it maintains a constant speed. Just watch my 80s/90s running session video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXdP5GATGAw . On top of this, the traction is great, so it's amazing on gradients too!
Summary
This is my best loco - and for a good reason! It's absolutely amazing and has loads of weight to it. Well done Hornby!
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