Museums are great places for model railroaders to visit to see the real thing when detailing models or, better yet, if the train runs, to hear the engine and horn or whistle and compare it with the model that has sounds.
Nearly every model of locomotive is preserved, fortunately, but some models are as extinct as the doo-doos. The UP’s M-100000 streamliner, for example.
Also, some museums have maintained rolling stock; the best being the Colorado narrow gauge lines which are operational museums with track. However, my guess is that some rolling stock too, are extinct, such as the tri-level open-type auto rack.
Are there any favorite models you have that no longer exist?
Dave Vergun