OBB Rh5081 Diesel Railcar & Trailer IV

OBB Rh5081 Diesel Railcar & Trailer IV

1:160 scale model produced by Piko. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Features:

• Analogue DC Model
• Best suited to Epoch IV Model Railways
• This model mainly operates in Austria
• This model is decorated in OBB company markings
• This model is best suited to 192mm radius curves

Details

The Uerdingen railbus VT 98 series, later classified under Classes 798 and BR 796, is one of the most iconic diesel railcar types in German railway history. Developed in the 1950s by the Uerdingen Wagon Works (Waggonfabrik Uerdingen), the VT 98 was created to revive passenger services on lightly trafficked branch lines where traditional steam trains were uneconomical. Its lightweight construction, simple mechanics and economical diesel power helped preserve rural and secondary passenger services across West Germany for decades.

The standard VT 98 was configured with two motors, enabling reliable performance and good acceleration for frequent stop services. Typically operated in multiple units or coupled with matching trailer cars classified as VB 98, the railbus was flexible for both low demand local runs and shuttle duties. From the late 1950s into the 1970s, large numbers of these units and trailers were in daily service on branch lines, suburban routes and valley railways, offering bright interiors and efficient operation compared with heavier rolling stock.

The VT 98’s simple, utilitarian design made it easy to maintain and inexpensive to run, contributing to its long service life. Many units were later repurposed for works trains, departmental use or preserved heritage operations after withdrawal from regular passenger service. Its distinctive railbus profile makes it instantly recognisable.