Hoki 2500 vs. 8500

[velotrain]

There may be minor detail differences between these two types, but generally they appear essentially the same - are they?  I see there's also a 9500 series that looks very similar.  I have looked at the Sumida Crossing list of JR freight cars, but it doesn't address this issue.

 

 

In terms of models of the 2500, it looks to me that the tradeoff is cheaper pricing on the Kato version - especially the 8-car set, vs. better details on the Popondetta version.

 

 

The Popondetta car looks to be crisper overall, with sharper detailing than on the Kato wagon.  In particular, the Popondetta has 3D grab irons, while they're molded into the body side on the Kato model - although, on the Popondetta car the ladder section is also molded onto the body.  However, the grabs do stick out much more than they do on the proto.  This (the differences between Kato and Popondetta) may be one of those things that - as Jeff often says, you're not going to notice from more than 30 cm. away.

 

 

I do prefer the cover for the Popondetta wagon over (so to speak) the Kato version.   

 

 

First image is the Popondetta covered car, while the second is the Kato.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[enodenlover]

I'd be happy owning either one of those cars but the Popondetta would be my first choice, much nicer detail.