Hornby’s latest VEPs
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The third and fourth versions of Hornby’s re-tooled 4Vep models are now in model shops. These two are the first outing for the new tooling of the original MBSO design. The models are:
I have to apologise that due to pressures on my time this is being done in a hurry, the pictures used are not my best and I have only been able to do some quick research. A earlier, fuller review of Hornby’s retooled Veps can be inspected by clicking here.(will open in a new window) Comments on this page supplement my fuller review and are best read in conjunction with it. |
 The new tooling of the original design MBSO
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| As per my previous review, it is a big shame that Hornby choose to represent headcode blinds as self-adhesive stickers to be applied over the headcode window as they should appear behind glass. I found applying them to be tricky, not helped by the punching to release them to be incomplete in some places and all the way through the backing paper in others, requiring use of a sharp scalpel to release them. This mostly results in the small rectangles of headcode panels being released still with the backing paper attached, and requiring the scalpel to separate them without stabbing the finger holding them! Definitely a continuing “ha’porth of tar” moment for Hornby. Additionally, unlike on the first two (refurbished) re-tooled models there is no double white blank. A double clear blank is supplied instead which results in the LED behind the window being visible – not at all realistic looking. |
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Car numbers on both models are correct for the period represented. 7712 was a long term Bournemouth depot unit and 3193 a long term Ramsgate unit (as can be seen in the above photo). However, 7712 is an unfortunate choice as it was a first batch unit which had very visible body lifting lugs which are conspicuously absent on this model. This model should also have raised aluminium BR arrows but the model is only supplied with them printed on. Both of these discrepancies can be seen in the picture at the head of this page. On a positive note, the shade and finish of the BR blue represents the airless spray application (which weathered awfully!) very well. Nor is the early Network SouthEast model quite right. Even after allowing for differences in colour rendition and colour perception to my eyes the shade of blue used is a little too dark, more like a colour-scaled version of the later darker NSE blue. I do not think this can be explained away as being in ex-works condition as both my memory and photographs suggest it to be lighter. Unless the darker blue was used with the early angled upsweep on some units? The difference in the shade of blue used is quite marked when compared to a new Accurscale Class 50 in early NSE colours, which looks credible to me. |
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These perplexing wrinkles aside, the standard of moulding, construction and decoration remains high. Given the unsophisticated drive mechanism it runs well enough straight out of the box. Given today’s high prices for multiple unit models, at the common discounted price of around £351 it is by prevailing standards decent-enough value for money. I just wish Hornby could produce a wrinkle-free Vep model. Are BR blue & grey and Connex light grey and yellow (with door window bars) versions to follow soon, please? Colin Duff. Modelling Officer. 15th June 2025. |
