Hornby Accessories - BR Mk4 Open First, Coach M

Discover the Hornby BR Mk4 Open First, Coach M – a stunning addition to your model railway collection. Built with precision and attention to detail, this beautifully crafted Mk4 coach is ideal for rail enthusiasts and collectors alike. Constructed between 1989 and 1992 at Metro-Cammell's Washwood Heath factory, this particular model represents a significant era in British rail history. The Mk4 coaches were meticulously engineered for the electrified East Coast Main Line, enhancing passenger experience with features like push-button operated plug-type doors and fully sealed gangways. With a top speed of 140mph, they were designed to match the performance of the groundbreaking Advanced Passenger Train, boasting tilt capabilities of up to 6° thanks to its sophisticated bogie design. Each coach played a crucial role in increasing passenger numbers during its service. The Mk4 Open First Coach M not only showcases authentic detailing but also embodies a piece of railway heritage that has traversed the tracks of the UK's high-speed corridors. Whether displayed on your layout or in a dedicated showcase, this stunning coach is a must-have. Elevate your train set with Hornby’s Mk4 Open First and experience the rich legacy of British rail transport. Perfect for model train enthusiasts seeking authenticity and excellence, this durable and detailed coach fits seamlessly within your collection.

HOR R40154 Hornby BR, Mk4 Open First, Coach H, - Era 8
Built at Metro-Cammell’s Washwood Heath factory, 314 Mk4 coaches were produced between 1989 and 1992. They were built specifically for use on the newly electrified East Coast Main Line, along with hopes that a second order for the West Coast Main Line would be placed at a later date, although this second order never transpired. Mk4 coaches featured many improvements over the Mk3s such as push-button operated plug-type doors, fully sealed gangways and a designed top speed of 140mph. Much of the Mk4 design was based upon the Advanced Passenger Train. In particular, Mk4 coaches feature sides profiled to allow a tilt of up to 6° with newly fitted tilting bogies. Mk4’s entered service in 1989 and helped drive a significant increase in passenger traffic. With privatisation in 1996, all Mk4 coaches were sold to Evershot Rail Group who have since leased them out to the holder of the InterCity East Coast Franchise. The franchise was initially awarded to Great North Eastern Railway (GNER) and has since been operated by National Express East Coast, East Coast, Virgin Trains East Coast and London North Eastern Railway (LNER) owned by the Department for Transport. Between October 2003 and November 2005 Bombardier Transportation, under contract from GNER, commenced refurbishment of the Mk4 stock, fitting new seating arrangements and introduced onboard Wi-Fi, a first for British rail services. This refurbishment programme was called ‘Project Mallard’ named after the Mallard steam locomotive, built in the 1930s by the London & North Eastern Railway and holder of the world speed record for steam locomotives. Although Mk4 coaches have spent most of their lives on the ECML, there are plans to cascade them down to other lines due to the introduction of the Class 800 and Class 801 IEPs.