Roco 71395 H0 - DRG class 38 (P8) steam locomotive era II

H0 scale DRG class 38 (P8) steam locomotive

This H0 scale (1:87) model represents the class 38 steam locomotive (formerly the Prussian P8) of the Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft, produced by Roco. The locomotive is depicted in a version with a boiler without smoke deflectors and equipped with Reichsbahn-style gas lighting lanterns. The model features LED lighting and a PluX22 decoder interface for optional digital operation.

• Scale: H0 (1:87)
• Length over buffers: 214 mm
• Type: steam locomotive class 38 (P8)
• Railway company: DRG – Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft
• Era: II
• Two powered axles
• Two axles with traction tyres
• Flywheel ensuring smooth running
• LED lighting: dual headlights depending on direction
• Cab and running gear lighting installed
• Decoder interface: PluX22
• Minimum radius: 358 mm
• Control system: DC analog (DCC decoder can be installed)

The model features a high level of detail with finely spoked wheels, a prototypical smokebox door and numerous separately attached details such as handrails and fittings. Authentic Reichsbahn lanterns intended for gas lighting emphasize the appearance typical for early DRG era locomotives.

Cab and running gear lighting are factory installed and can be activated in digital operation after installing a decoder. Thanks to the PluX22 interface the model can easily be upgraded to digital control with additional lighting and operating functions.

About the P8 / class 38 locomotives

The P8 steam locomotive was developed by the Prussian State Railways as a versatile passenger locomotive designed to handle the growing demand for passenger and express train services. The design proved extremely successful and became one of the most widely used steam locomotives in Europe.

By 1923 more than 3,700 units had been built by German manufacturers. Under the Deutsche Reichsbahn classification system these locomotives were designated class 38 (38.10–40). They delivered about 880 kW of power and were capable of reaching speeds up to 100 km/h.

During the early years of the DRG many locomotives still carried the earlier olive-green livery with red-brown frames and black details before the later standard black and red colour scheme became widespread.

About the manufacturer – Roco

Roco is a renowned Austrian manufacturer of model railway products known for high-quality craftsmanship and accurate reproduction of real railway vehicles. The company offers a wide range of locomotives, coaches, freight wagons and track systems in the most popular modelling scales. Roco models are appreciated by hobbyists for their detailed design, reliable running characteristics and extensive selection of railway vehicles from different eras and railway administrations.