Let us be somewhat realistic here. We should remember that the first Hornby Merchant Navy release 'Clan Line' marked an impressive upward turn in the quality of Locomotives that were produced. Something that remains evident to this day. I have the ACE Train Pack which includes Merchant Navy 'United States Line' a superb Locomotive if there ever was one mould line or not. I do notice on my 2011 release of the DCC Ready Merchant Navy 'Lamport and Holt Line' this matter has been addressed however the overall appearance of the locomotive has not changed from the original for those without magnifying glasses except the lack of the speedo cable on the later release, I am led to believe it is so on the prototype. The same level of high quality and impressive haulage capabilities remains in both early and latest releases.
Furthermore let us not complain too much as at least the Merchant Navy can be handled without the fear of things breaking off as is the case with the Britannia's and Clans.
Overall Hornby are doing a fine job with Steam Locomotives and perhaps should leave Diesels and Electric Locomotives to Bachmann and Heljan who fill that part of the market with outstanding products.
Furthermore let us not complain too much as at least the Merchant Navy can be handled without the fear of things breaking off as is the case with the Britannia's and Clans.
Overall Hornby are doing a fine job with Steam Locomotives and perhaps should leave Diesels and Electric Locomotives to Bachmann and Heljan who fill that part of the market with outstanding products.
