Rapido Trains UK has released a brand-new model of the Birmingham based Fleetline as well as a new batch of its popular ‘New Look’ Guy Arab half-cabs for ‘OO’ gauge. MIKE WILD unleashes his bus knowledge on these new arrivals.
Gauge: 'OO' | Scale: 1:76/4mm:1ft | Price: £54.95 each | Cat No: 901002 (Fleetline, as reviewed), 900004 (Guy Arab, as reviewed) | Site: www.rapidotrainsuk.co.uk | Era: 4-6 (Guy Arab), 6-9 (Fleetline)
Above: The West Midlands Fleetline is making its debut with Rapido and follows the same specification as the Guy Arab. Interior detail is stunning too.
THE LEYLAND FLEETLINE was once as much a part of my life as the ham sandwich with my dad working with the local bus operator which included a large fleet of these hard-working rugged vehicles. I spent countless hours around Roe and ex-Manchester vehicles which, amongst others, has led to a lifelong interest in Passenger Service Vehicles.
While they might have had the same Gardner engine as the West Midlands Passenger Transport Executive (WMPTE) Fleetlines, they were considerably different in their appearance with those operated in Birmingham having either MCW or Park Royal bodywork. They were built for the city between 1971 and 1979.…
