Question about products I need answered

[Anonymous]

I am trying to get some research done about O guage, want to get started. I have not had a chance to get to train shows do to the wether. I notice on E-bay that, a Lionel sells for 2-3 times to as much as 5 times as a Williams/Marx. I also know that two identical trains, one has bells and whistles, will sell for 2-3X as much. However, these are exactly identical as far as features.

Here is my question, is the Williams NYC passenger set just like Lionel or is it durablility, design, type of material?

I will spend the extra money if there is an issue of quality, but is it just name?

Thanks


Walt

[Big_Boy_4005]

I don't think that the difference in pricing between Williams and Lionel is as much about overall quality, as it is about detail, features and historic name brand. Williams has actually been around for, I believe, 30 years or so. Williams quality has improved greatly during that time, and their prices have always been most reasonable. I guess it really depends on what you want and like, as to what you are willing to pay for.

It may be rather hard to do any real comparison shopping, as Williams is not usually something dealers carry a lot of on their shelves. I have some engines and some passenger sets, and I really like them.

[Anonymous]

I have lots of Williams.. I think I have 5 passenger sets. My favorite is the aluminum luxury liners. They are really first rate. Not as expensive as Lionel but not as much detail either. The newer SD90,, Dash 9 and the like are wonderful pullers, again not as much detail as Lionel but an excellent value for the money.
I always buy the engines new ,because of the Williams warranty. Check with Marty @ mapajunction.com. He is a good guy and has excellent prices.
If you dont need all the electronics ie. TMCC or DCS try Williams. ... Thats my 2 cents....Tim

[wrmcclellan]

Walt,

I also have some Williams passenger cars, etc. If the set has an appearance you like, get them, you will be pleased with Williams' quality. Williams is also very nice to deal with for any replacement parts.

Regards,
Roy

[tschmidt]

Walt,

I am also fairly new to this hobby. I set up a track that runs around the wall of our family room. I have pretty much been a purist for Lionel, for no particular reason other than that's what I knew as a kid many years ago. I run everything with TMCC and I am very happy with that. After some looking around, I found a dealer that I believe I can trust and gives a very good discount on items pre-ordered from the catalogs. I buy what I like and can afford at the time.

Good luck in your decision making.
Tom

[Anonymous]

I have been able to check out Ma and Pa Junction - the input has been great.

Thanks agian!!!

Walt