Must be something old, rare?

[Super]

Anyone recognize this Plarail train? The seller only says its a "Plarail New train old power five-car train" By the looks of the on/off switch on the front of the first car and the color of the box could this be a very early Plarail commuter train? Is it even a Plarail? Is it rare enough for the seller to ask 20000yen about $200?

Well it has the usual yellow plarail wheels of some older designs (which I hate lol) and the usual connectors, but it looks pretty detailed with maybe interiors in the cars. Maybe its a special promo train of some type, it seems Tomy/Takara are quite happy to make those as I've picked up several of the more modern ones in the few months I've been buying/collecting these lovely toys

[Ucwepn]

The logo on the box looks correct but I'd be scared it's a re-release to coincide with some event or anniversary. I can ask for you in the TOMY FB group if you'd like?

Hi Super,

I don't think a 5-car set actually exists. The original was released as 3-car sets from 1972-1975 with three different versions/renewals along the way between those years. After that, these were replaces with more 'modern' trains. The differences between the three versions were the mould for the cars. E.g. From version 1 to version 2, a noticeable difference are the three 'boxes' on top of each car becoming more detailed (with an indent).

Another thing I can confirm (at least from my knowledge) is that this was not a re-release for some event. Events did not happen until quite recently (in the past 20-30 years). If it were to be a release for an event, it would be using the new chassis for the front car and not the old one.

I hope this helps!

-plarnold

[Super]

Thanks fellas. Very interesting to learn the history. I wish they had a picture of the full box. With that switch in front would these be one of those metal motors that drive the wheels with friction rubbers and not gears.