Motive Power

The backbone to Lionel's postwar era was the production of their locomotives, which can be loosely categorized into steam locomotives, electric engines and diesel powered units. Every layout -- whether an entry level oval or a highly elaborate layout spread over multiple 4' x 8' sheets of plywood -- needed at least one locomotive!

This portion of the Lionel Trains Library provides some insight into the three categories mentioned above -- plus dozens of other sub categories reflecting the various roadnames or different styles of locomotives. As you browse through this section, you'll become engulfed in the hundreds of locomotive options from entry level to mid level and eventually high-end locomotives. And for the diesel fans, the variety of road names and colors is absolutely impressive! Sit back and enjoy the evolution of Lionel motive power manufactured from 1945 through 1969.