Oval Genuine
Polar Express Lionel Train – How Come They Make O and G Gauges?
Lionel Trains were quick to catch the buzz created by the release of the animated Robert Zemeckis movie in 2004 with the release of their own O gauge electric Polar Express Train set. Shortly after, they released a cheaper G gauge version of the polar express train. The two versions of the same product have caused some confusion, especially amongst parents who are not especially train-savvy. So what’s the difference?
The O gauge set is an electric train set, with the locomotive made from die-cast metal parts, running on standard Lionel track, also made of metal. The G gauge set, on the other hand, is made from plastic – locomotive, coaches and track. The locomotive is battery-powered and these two factors, more than anything else account for the price difference.
I want to give my kids a great Christmas – which should I buy?
Both sets represent significant entry points to a highly satisfying, life-long hobby. Both sets will give your kids a Christmas to remember and provide a focal point for you to interact with your children’s play. For my two cents worth, train sets are worth every dollar you spend and they’ll continue bringing fun and joy well beyond the holiday season.
The G Gauge set, selling for around $100.00, is more suitable for younger children; 3 to 6 year olds. Everything you need on December 25th is right there in the box – batteries (6 C size for the loco and 2 AAs for the RC controller) are included. You can also purchase separately a 9.6v rechargeable to take the place of the Cs. The locomotive makes surprisingly good steam train sounds, including bell and whistle, the coach has opening doors and the observation car features a disappearing hobo, who is sure to be a hit with the kids! The easily assembled track makes up into a 72″ by 55″ oval. Add-on track packs are available from Lionel stockists, making this train set a genuine model railroad entry-point. All up, a great introduction to a great hobby.
OK, I’m convinced . . . but tell me about the O gauge train set.
Lionel’s O gauge Polar Express costs quite a bit more (anywhere from $266.00 to $329.00, depending on where you buy) but you get a whole lot more. This is a genuine electric train set which will run with any of the other O gauge products in the Lionel range.
Suitable for what ages? Well, you know your own children, but 7 or so seems about right to me.
The locomotive – a pretty decent representation of the Lima-built Berkshire 2-8-4 – puffs smoke as it runs, chugs like a real steam loco and has a very realistic-sounding steam whistle. The three passenger cars have interior lighting (a nice touch for when darkness falls on December 25th, and the living-room lights go out) and the passengers themselves are silhouetted in the windows of the cars. The track assembles easily into a 60″ x 40″ oval. The control pack (which also has the bell and whistle buttons) is big and solid and the throttle itself is satisfyingly chunky and mounted on the right hand side of the pack.
So there y’ go. Different horses for different courses, from a great American model train maker. G or O? Have fun deciding. Why not slip into your local train store and try them yourself. Great oaks from small acorns grow.
About the Author
Liam is an avid collector of model trains and a gamer enthusiastic. Take a look inside his site: Spicy Gifts Hobbies – for more helpful tips and great offers of Christmas trains, Lionel & Bachmann train sets and more..
My R150 with Genuine Yoshimura Tri-Oval KIT
|
|
Hamilton Beach 5.5 QUART PREMIERE OVAL SLOWCOOKER CAST ALUMINUM C (Small Appliances / Home Appliances) $83.48 5.5 QUART PREMIERE OVAL SLOWCOOKER CAST ALUMINUM C. Cast-aluminum cookware offers even heating and non-stick performanceRemovable cookware that is safe for use on gas, electric and ceramic rangesoven-safe for added versatilityBrown meat and finish cooking in the same pan to save time and clean-upOval shape is the perfect design for a 6 lb. chicken or two 3 lb. roasts4 settings: off, low, high and … |
|
|
Genuine Fiesta Yellow Plaid Tablecloth Large Windowpane, 60 by 84 Inch Oval $84.99 … |
|
|
Retro oval dinner plate Handmade glass 11 1/2 x 10 1/2 oval dinner plate produced in the U.S.A. Durable, chip-resistant and dishwasher safe. Banded with genuine platinum. Handmade glass 11 1/2 x 10 1/2″ oval dinner plate produced in the U.S.A. Durable, chip-resistant and dishwasher safe. Banded with genuine platinum…. |
|
|
Lite Source LS-20208LTR Tannar Table Lamp, Genuine Leather with Oval Suede Shade $118.08 Lite Source Table LampYou are currently looking at a Lite Source Table Lamp from the Tannar family.Finish: Painted FinishesHeight: 18 InchesWidth: 14 Inches… |
|
|
49 x 22 Recessed Oval Bowl Marble Vanity Top Finish: White Swirl ROV4922601 Finish: White Swirl Pictured in White. Faucet Not Included. Features: -Marble vanity top.-Recessed oval bowl.-High gloss crack and scratch resistant wear layer.-Raised ”no drip” edge.-Accommodates standard 4” centre set faucet. Options: -Available in several finishes. Dimensions: -4” High integral backsplash.-Overall dimensions: 49” W x 22” D. Warranty: -Manufacturer provides 5 ye… |
|
|
49 x 22 Recessed Oval Bowl Marble Vanity Top Finish: Biscuit Swirl ROV4922628 Finish: Biscuit Swirl Pictured in White. Faucet Not Included. Features: -Marble vanity top.-Recessed oval bowl.-High gloss crack and scratch resistant wear layer.-Raised ”no drip” edge.-Accommodates standard 4” centre set faucet. Options: -Available in several finishes. Dimensions: -4” High integral backsplash.-Overall dimensions: 49” W x 22” D. Warranty: -Manufacturer provides 5 … |
|
|
Lg. Oval Hair Brush Wood Bristles $8.18 Large oval, wooden hair brush, with cushion, and wooden bristles.Bass Brushes have been used and recommended by hair stylists everywhere. There top quality bristle and craftmanship have proven their durability even under the most demanding professional use. Daily brushing with a Bass natural bristle brush will help to improve hair condition, giving you heathly looking hair.All wood used in our pr… |
|
|
Spornette 25 Wood Handle Porcupine Brush With Genuine Boar Bristle * Made In Germany $13.46 * “Porcupine” * German Made * Large Wood Handle, 2-3/8″ wide X 8-3/4″ long * Boar/Nylon Bristle Cushion Brush… |
|
|
L. Erickson Wide Glammed Up Leather Headwrap The L. Erickson Wide Glammed Up Headwrap is a striking accessory featuring dazzling crystals and varied metal chains set atop a genuine leather band. Wide coverage and thick elastic closure ensures ultimate comfort while giving you a fearless look. Be daring and playful in this dramatic, eye-catching piece…. |
|
|
90W AC Adapter Charger for Hp Compaq Pavilion zv6000 zv6100 ZV6200 R4000 R4100 R4200 Power supply /Cord $3.13 Fit Laptop Models: HP Compaq Pavilion zv6000 Series models:HP Compaq Pavilion zv6000, zv6000 (CTO), zv6001xx, zv6002xx, zv6003xx, zv6004EA, zv6004xx, zv6005us, zv6006EA, zv6007US, zv6008cl, zv6009EA, zv6009us, zv6010ea, zv6010us, zv6011EA, zv6013ea, zv6015US, zv6017EA, zv6020ea, zv6024EA, zv6025EA HP Compaq Pavilion zv6100 Series models:HP Compaq Pavilion zv6100, zv6107wm, zv6114ea, zv6115ea, zv61… |
