RailRoad BR A1 Class 60163 Tornado Steam Loco (DCC-Sound)

RailRoad BR A1 Class 60163 Tornado Steam Loco (DCC-Sound)

1:76 scale model produced by Hornby. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Details

Bring a modern steam legend to your layout with the Hornby RailRoad Peppercorn A1 No. 60163 'Tornado', finished in attractive British Railways lined Apple Green with BR tender lettering. One of the most recognisable steam locomotives operating on Britain's railway network today, Tornado combines heritage styling with contemporary main line operation, making it a popular choice for railway enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Part of the dependable Hornby RailRoad range, this OO gauge model offers robust construction and reliable running while faithfully capturing the appearance of the celebrated Peppercorn A1. Equipped with a factory-fitted DCC Sound decoder, the locomotive delivers authentic sound effects recorded from the real No. 60163 Tornado, bringing an added level of realism to your model railway.

Whether operating express passenger services or taking pride of place in a collection, this sound-fitted Tornado is a fantastic addition to any modern-era OO gauge layout.

Designed to offer dependable performance, this RailRoad model features robust construction with moulded body detailing and smoothly operating running gear. The factory-installed DCC Sound decoder is compatible with NMRA-compliant DCC systems and the Hornby HM7000 ecosystem, providing realistic locomotive sounds based on recordings of the prototype locomotive.

The model includes NEM coupling sockets for easy integration with a wide range of coaches and wagons, while the included accessory pack allows additional detailing. Suitable for layouts using 2nd radius curves and above, this locomotive combines affordability, practicality and authentic sound performance in one attractive package.

Features:

• 1:76 Scale Model
• DCC Sound Model
• This model mainly operates in Britain
• Decorated in BR company markings
• Best suited to 438mm radius curves
• British Railways lined Apple Green livery with BR tender lettering
• Factory-fitted DCC Sound decoder with authentic Tornado sound profile
• Fully working piston rods and connecting valve gear
• NEM coupling sockets for compatibility with OO gauge rolling stock
• Durable RailRoad specification for reliable operation and everyday running

Historical Background

The original Peppercorn A1 Pacifics were among the most advanced express passenger steam locomotives built for British Railways. Designed by Arthur Peppercorn, the class became renowned for their power and reliability, but unfortunately none survived into preservation following the end of steam traction in Britain.

In 1990, the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust launched an ambitious project to build a brand-new Peppercorn A1 from the ground up. Constructed at Darlington using a combination of traditional engineering techniques and modern manufacturing methods, No. 60163 'Tornado' was completed in 2008, becoming the first new main line steam locomotive built in Britain for decades.

Following successful testing at the Great Central Railway, Tornado received certification for operation on the national rail network in January 2009. Since then, it has become a regular sight on rail tours and special trains throughout the UK, appearing in several historically inspired liveries. In 2017, the locomotive achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first steam locomotive in more than fifty years to reach 100 mph, securing its place as one of the most significant steam locomotives of the preservation era.