That takes me back, I'm 99% sure I bought that issue off the newstand (well, at the local record shop more likely) as a teenager. I found out about the National Lampoon magazine when a local 'underground' FM rock station starting playing the National Lampoon Radio Hour show with John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Christopher Guest, Harold Ramis, etc. etc.
Found it and it certainly brought back memories!
Even though the magazine was satire I had forgotten how, generally, Amtrak was negatively viewed by many in those days and made fun of whenever the opportunity popped up.
I remember being surprised when criticized at a model railroad store. With a smile I commented, in front of several adult customers, that I wanted to model Amtrak trains. Responses included: "Amtrak? Why?!", "Ugh!", "Ahh, not Amtrak." I was naive and a bit clueless regarding the real world of government bueracracies and transportation industry economics.
Nevertheless I got 4 Athearn Amtrak "shorties" and a Blue Box FP45 with the "Pointless Arrow" scheme. I wanted the Bachmann Metroliner set, but as a kid working part time, I couldn't afford the $79.99 price tag.
Was very good to see that public perception improved greatly in the 80's.
Thanks for posting that link Overmod
"I like my Pullman Standards & Budds in Stainless Steel flavors, thank you!"
not 73 PAGE 83
I tried to sell my two cents worth, but no one would give me a plug nickel for it.
I don't have a leg to stand on.
http://www.luckyfrogfarms.com/cook/NL/1970's/1973/1973_10.pdf
Page 73. No, wait, 79. Magazine is '73.