This is a beautiful Lionel 6-7203 O gauge aluminum dining car featuring the Norfolk & Western "Powhatan Arrow" livery, manufactured in 1982 during the MPC era.
Car Details:
Model: 6-7203 Dining Car #491
Railroad: Norfolk & Western (N&W)
Train Name: Powhatan Arrow
Year Manufactured: 1982
Scale: O Gauge (Traditional size)
Length: 15 inches (16 inches with couplers)
Minimum Curve: O-31
Features:
Extruded aluminum body with authentic painted Norfolk & Western finish
Metal chassis and frame construction
Die-cast metal trucks with metal wheels and axles
Operating knuckle couplers at both ends
Illuminated interior with overhead lighting
Passenger silhouettes visible through windows
Authentic road number 491 and N&W markings
Original MPC-era construction
Quality & Historical Significance:
This car represents the classic MPC (Model Products Corporation) era of Lionel production (1970-1986). The painted aluminum construction provides durability and authentic appearance superior to plastic cars. The 6-7203 is considered one of the harder N&W aluminum passenger cars to find, making it more desirable among collectors.
Historical Background:
The Powhatan Arrow was a prestigious Norfolk & Western Railway passenger train that operated from 1946-1969, running between Norfolk, Virginia, and Cincinnati, Ohio. Lionel faithfully recreated this famous train with distinctive maroon and cream livery on these aluminum passenger cars.
Compatible Set:
This dining car was designed to operate with the 1982 N&W Powhatan Arrow aluminum passenger set and pairs beautifully with other Lionel O gauge aluminum cars in matching livery. The 15-inch length allows operation on traditional O-31 curves, ideal for space-conscious layouts.
Operational Features:
Operates on standard Lionel O gauge track
Die-cast trucks provide smooth rolling operation
Knuckle couplers for compatibility with most Lionel equipment
Interior lighting requires appropriate Lionel transformer for operation
All items carefully packed and shipped promptly.