In early 1980 the MBTA evaluated a Leyland railbus from England as a possible acquisition for off-peak service on lightly traveled lines. Here the British import poses in front of Amtrak's Attleboro (MA) tower during a test run on the Northeast Corridor. Following tests, LEV 1 went into revenue service covering a midday run between Lowell, MA, and Concord, NH, but within a couple weeks it was involved in a grade crossing accident and never ran in Boston again.
The 70's and 80's were a transition period for the MBTA characterized by an eclectic mix of equipment including Budd RDC's, ex-New Haven stainless steel coaches, and a mix of motive power acquired from various railroads.
The worst of railroad design. Please, send me your entries / suggestions for the "Album of the ugly trains of the world" (past or present, paint scheme or shape).
