Lionel Trains
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..
Lionel Trains for Christmas – CBS Sunday Morning 12/17/2000
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