Just received my Newqida HSB Harz coaches. Now I am a one-eyed LGB devotee but my initial reaction when viewing the Chinese coaches is , Marklin better up their game. The coach has new roof moulding, replicating the high arch roof typical of the #3070X series LGB six window cars. Also, a new underframe moulding and more robust end railings than those found on the earlier released Saschen cars.
Paintwork and lettering is superbly done and roadname is actually 'HSB'. Irrespective of the seven window car photograph and critique above, I have viewed You-tube videos and found cars that match the Newqida model. These are very attractive and well executed models. They are suplied in the earlier released green Saschen packaging with internal clear plastic supports. The known coupler issue still exists, however, this is readily sorted out in service.
If I have one 'criticism' it is that the sideframe compensation on the trucks is overdone in that there is too much compensated movement in the sideframe llowing a wheelset to drop out in transit. This should not be an issue inservice unless one's track is little more than a goat track. If thinking of getting these but put off by the negative hype, then I suggest acting soon. Once the word gets out these will quickly dry up in the marketplace or escaslate in price. I purchased six of these beauties for my personal useage. They worked out at approximately $70.00 Aud each including postage, as compared to the 'equivalent' six window LGB coach for around $400.00 each including postage if purchased locally. I may be tempted to purchase a HSB Cafe car locally from LGB to compliment the Newqida cars.
I liked the earlier released Saschen cars. I REALLY like the HSB cars. Newqida is certainly dusting off its misconceived 'poor quality' issues! I am tempted to get more while still available.