[ME 26-06]

QUOTE (simonj @ 26 Oct 2007, 00:58) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Which of the two models by Fleischmann and Minitrix is the most accurate? It looks like F updated their version in 2003 with a NEM socket but not sure if they used new toolings for the body etc. Has anybody seen the variants side by side? thanks

Look out for the "old" Arnold - the last models that were produced (not the early ones, they stink) are the most accurate 103 offering in N scale.

Couldn´t find one on eBay, they´re very hard to get these days.

 

[ME 26-06]

They´re the old style offerings.

 

[ME 26-06]

QUOTE (goedel @ 28 Oct 2007, 19:44) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>How can one tell the difference, expecially from pictures e.g. in an eBay auction?

This is an auction for the new version. Engine # 103 169-9, Article number 2373.

That was the data I was looking for - these engines are up to par with the latest E03 prototype releases - they are great!

The engine is smaller, the body is way less crude, very fine printing and detail. Compare the front windows (correct shape, flush, albeit the picture in the auction is not too good) with the older releases - that should help you find a new, good one!