Hope this doesn't seem like a dumb question

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

OK train lovers,

For a long time, I’ve read about 3 rail trains from AMT. So might question is simple. Is this the same company that went on to make all those great model cars of the 60’s?

2

Jef, Welcome to the Forum.

I don’t think so, but will be looking forward to see the answer from someone more knowledgeable than me.

3

Here’s a link to a good history of AMT, the train company:

http://www.tcawestern.org/amt.htm

And here’s a brief history of AMT Models:

http://www.promotex.ca/articles/cawthon/2002/12-15-2002_article.html

Although they’re completely unrelated companies, it’s interesting that AMT Models launched the career of George Toteff, the founder of Model Products Corporation, or MPC. MPC was the division of General Mills that assumed control of the Lionel train line in 1970, and George Toteff was its president.

Today Lionel has access to much former AMT (trains) tooling through its acquisition of K-Line which in turn acquired tooling of Kusan which had been developed for AMT!

But no, AMT Trains and AMT Models were never the same company!

Jon [8D]

4

No, they’re not. AMT trains is American Model Toys/Auburn Model Trains. Originally incorporated in 1948. The model car maker was based in Troy, Michigan and was started in 1950’s. They started making “kits” in 1958. This AMT’s name is based on Aluminum Metal Toys.

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<< Although they’re completely unrelated companies, it’s interesting that AMT Models launched the career of George Toteff, the founder of Model Products Corporation, or MPC. MPC was the division of General Mills that assumed control of the Lionel train line in 1970, and George Toteff was its president. >>

You know I forgot all about that. Thanks for the info.

6

[#welcome] And interesting question, Jef, and a more interesting answer re AMT. I wondered the same thing.

Back then you could look at a car from 75 yards out and know exactly what you were looking at, not so easy today. And NASCAR then was more of a no-holds-barred type of racing and race car development versus the vanilla “all cars must be made equal” brand of racing we are seeing today. I prefer seeing 427ci or 426ci emblazoned in the hood of a race car than a commercial for laundry detergent.

A lot of guys take great pride in displaying “period” autos on their layouts, especially from that era. I enjoy their pictures posted in this Forum very much, never tire of them.

Jack