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O Gauge Car Sizes
Finding the right size for the best action
The Scales within O are 1/48, Classic / Traditional (approximately 1/55)
and O27 (1/64). Variations in size are conspicuous. Thus, by
understanding just how much the different scales match, we can plan our consists
for better appearance as well as improved action.
As a rule, the Classic / Traditional cars are a 'middle ground' between 1/48
and 1/64 scale. Classic-sized freights generally can mix with either
extreme. Of course, the extremes do not blend well. A 1/48 scale
car is gigantic in comparison to its 1/64 027 counterpart. The differences
between scales include height, depth and length.
Some cars considered Classic can bend toward either extreme, in size.
Others are pretty much standardized. By getting a feel for
differences in size, you can make trains with the right look and action.
As always ,smaller cars tend to allow for more action on a small pike,
while larger scales tend to cut down on the activity. Scale 1/48 works
best on very long pikes; O27 works well on all pikes, and is best on smaller
ones. Classic / Traditional can fit either role, though is not as effective
as O27 on short pikes or O Scale on very long ones.
One other problem: most O pikes use scenery, accessories and layouts made
for Classic-sized cars. They can handle O27 without a hitch, but might
impede Scale or close-to-scale cars. Scale cars can snag on tunnel
portals, underpasses, and any tight clearances. Classic trestle heights
can block some of the larger and wider Scale pieces.
Note how several Railking cars are made close to 1/48, and thus have the
same limitations as their full-Scale counterparts. Lionel, K-line and
Williams Classics do not have that limitation.
L to R: S gauge, O27, Traditional (6400 / 6464), 1/48 Scale. Classic
O27 is 1/64 made to ride O trucks. S is 1/64, using narrower track
and lower trucks. |
Note disparity in size: Scale overwhelms O27 |
From L to R: Scale, 6400, )27, S |
S appears shorter because of trucks, but body height is same as O27 |
Marx Crane, a classic size, is not as tall as Railking |
Compare scale caboose on left, with classic Lionel caboose. Lionel
caboose is actually O27 (1/64 over O). |
Railking cars are taller, and tender is longer than Marx |
From L to R: Scale, Railking woodside (almost scale), Marx / K-Line Deluxe
(classic) and Lionel (actually O27). Note by comparison the O27 boxcars
underneath. |