Athearn has various levels of models they offer
depending on the detail you want , they have a model line for you
Athearn blue box line.
you get the model and a bag of detail parts that may or may not be correct for your model.
one set fits all models for that type of model produced
lowest price and value.
HO KIT F7A Super, CN/Zebra Stripes [ATH3247]
Announced 4/15/2001
Retail Price: $39.50
Ready To Roll model line
detail parts added and for the basic model, they put it together for you
HO RTR F7 A/B, CN/Zebra [ATH80393]
Announced 5/10/2005
Retail Price: $69.98
Genesis Line
HO F7A w/DCC & Sound, CN #9100 [ATHG10261]
Announced 6/7/2005
Retail Price: $199.98
Detailed Information
DC Mode Features
- All sound functions are operated by a wireless handheld remote (DC mode only). No additional control box is required to access advanced sound features.
- The six-button wireless remote allows control of the horn, bell, coupler crash, brake squeal, dynamic brake and brake air release.
- Additional programmable features allow for different bell and horn tones, coupler on/off, bell rate, directional lights on/off and volume control.
- Allows for creation of multiple unit lashup with horn, bell and lights on the lead unit only.
DCC Mode Features
- Compatible with all NMRA standard DCC systems
- Programable for either 2 digit or 4 digit address
- Programable start voltage
- Programable acceleration/deceleration rate
- Programmable top voltage
- Programmable speed steps
- Programmable individual unit sound volume
- Access to special lighting effects: Mars light, Gyralight, beacon or strobe
- Advanced consisting
- Access to nineteen accessory sound functions
HO F7A, CN #9100 [ATHG1026]
Announced 6/7/2005
Retail Price: $129.98
HO F7A, CN #9100 Key Features
- Researched from the prototype to match specific units
- Genesis driveline with dynamically balanced five pole skew wound motor and dual flywheels
- Directional constant lighting
- Seperately applied photo etched and injection molded detail parts
- Cab interior
That is jsut the basics for one model they make in the various skill levels or level of detail. What it really comes down to is what your needs are, how much work you want to put into a model detail wise, how much your willing to part with, how much time you have to put the extras on the model
Atlas Offers a couple line of models also
Trainman Model Line
http://www.atlastrainman.com/HOLoco/tmhogp38.htm
Features:
- The same drive as our basic Master Series™, in an affordable locomotive
- Five-pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels
- Separately applied hand rails and end railings
- Matching cabooses available separately
- Locating dimples for grab irons
- True scale dimensions with accurate details
- Realistic die-cast underframes
- Equipped with AccuMate® Couplers
- As with our Master Series™ GP-38, this model features either a 2,600 or 3,600 gallon fuel tank, depending on the prototype.
- 69.95
Master Line
Features Include:
-Realistic die-cast underframe
-Five-pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels for optimum performance at all speeds
-Directional lighting
-Factory-equipped with AccuMate® knuckle couplers
-Detailed cab interior with crew
-Separately-installed scale windshield wipers, metal grab irons and fine scale handrails
-Movable drop steps
-Walkway safety tread
-Coupler cut bars
-Multiple unit hoses and trainline hoses
Additional feature parts included but not installed:
-Snowplow
-Electrical cabinet air filter box (ECAFB)
-Two engine compartment roof vents which were added by many railroads sometime after delivery (GP-40 only)
The GP-38 and GP-40 locomotives are available in dynamic or non-dynamic brake versions, with either a 2600 or 3600 gallon fuel tank as appropriate by railroad.
As an AtlasMaster locomotive, these units will come equipped with the NEW 4-Function HO Dual-Mode Decoder pre-installed.
$129.95
So with altas also it is up to decide the level of detail and extras you require.
All major model train companies are now offering a basic line up and more detailed line up.
Hope that helps explains the differences in the model lines.
I have the Basic line of Athearn and very pleased with them run well and I also have the basic line from Atlas and very pleased with them also. all depends on the model you want what your willing to pay for that model