I've had this Lego set (number 4561) a long time. It was produced in 1999 and ran off powered 9V track. Lego dispensed with powered track and in the mid-noughties, switching to battery-powered, radio controlled trains. It's a great set and was very fun to build.

I had two reasons for digging this set out from my store cupboard of Lego sets. The first was to check the compatibility of the buffers. Lego used to use mounted magnets, but on the RC trains they brought in a new all-in-one coupling unit. You can see the differences here:

I wanted to check the old and new buffers would work together as I've been tempted to buy some older rolling stock to run with my trains. The good news is they fit together nicely.

The other thing I wanted to have a closer look at was this ramp that was included in the set.

I have plans for this and all will be revealed soon.

Also in set 4561 was this train spotter. I like him.