Curious to know if these will be N.P/SP&S prototypes or just relettered UP models,
Assuming the former because of the closed cab model shown.....fingers crossed!!
I would love to have one of these locos in N.P. livery. However, my curve radius is too tight for any articulateds. I do love that a manufacturer is offering any N.P. equipment! Athearn has stepped up a notch, in my book!
NP 2626 "Northern Pacific, really terrific"
Northern Pacific Railway Historical Association: http://www.nprha.org/
And so does the SP&S.
http://www.athearn.com/newsletter/032715/02_Gen_Challenger_032715.pdf
By the way, the MSRP deflates to $84.24 in 1965 and the upcoming model includes sound and DCC. You couldn't have bought that model in 1965 in unpainted brass (DC only) for under $100. Closest available equivalent (in 1966 was the Z-5 2-8-8-4 for $184.50.
http://hoseeker.net/pacificfastmailinformation/pfmcatalog11thed1966pg33.jpg
Street price should run around $525-550 give or take.
Good for you, Athearn. I won't be buying one, but the reason has nothing to do with price.
Andre