I received my six Bluford USRA twin hoppers decorated for New Haven today. They look good, as I suspected they would from the online progress photos. But I wanted to see how the Bachmann version matched up, since some felt it was a sub-par effort. I have to say, a side-by-side comparison shows otherwise.
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Overall, the detail on the two models is comparable. The models both ride at the same height. The fineness of the rivet detail is the same. Various individual plates appear to be on both models at comparable relief. The T-frame trucks on the Bachmann car are not valid for the prototype, but it's nice to have that truck available for other purposes. The black paint on the Bachmann C&O model is more of a satin or matte finish, while the black paint on the Bluford NH model has more gloss to it.
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The B-end brake configuration is different on the two models. The Bluford cars have a ratchet brake, while the Bachmann cars have a brakewheel. I will have to modify my Bluford models to have brakewheels to match the New Haven prototype.
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The simulated coal loads are different. I actually prefer the look of the Bachmann load, but both loads probably are not fully prototypical in appearance.
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The ribs on the Bachmann model might be slightly more shallow than the Bluford model (and the prototype), but it is not as pronounced as one would believe. The two models blend well together and do not look out of place with each other.
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In fact, they are so compatible that I have no urge to upgrade my bashed Pennsy GLd to one of the Bluford offerings. While installing MTL couplers on the Bachmann model is a huge pain, the end result makes the effort worth it.
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Also, I actually prefer to run the cars empty, and I prefer the interior detail of the Bachmann car. The bracing really makes it pop.
So the bottom line is that the Bluford model is a winner, but the Bachmann model more than holds its own. The Bluford model is available at a better price point and in greater variety of accurate schemes, while the Bachmann model can be pricey and has been released with mostly inaccurate schemes. But the tooling of the Bachmann model is first-rate, along with the Bluford model. I'll probably be looking to add the interior bracing to the Bluford cars along with the brakewheels, as it's easier to do that to the six Bluford cars (and three more special-run NYNH&H schemes en route from BLW) than to finish the eight Bachmann models I currently have in progress.
