Hi Bill, YES, the kits are the same - only different decals etc. NO, the restored 641 has two large windows flanked by two smaller ones like the 2 kits! http://www.hans-maennel.de/D/mus_strab/bilder/fnfs_nfs_641.jpg The 1st pic in my 1st posting is showing 641 as a workshop tram in its very late time of use (6 equal windows of the same size). And this old workhorse was restored to the former appearance as for passenger transport. Michael

Michael, thanks for clearing that up! I have no objection to two kits that are the same except for markings, that gives us options!

Aesthetically, it would have been nicer if the tram track ran across the base at an angle rather than down one side. I'm just being picky! I note these trams have 609 parts according to the box, I'll be interested to see a build up before I put my toe in the water, that sounds like a lot of very small parts, considering it doesn't have tracks!!!

Terry, over on PMMS, has a full build review.. not an easy kit to build... but looks like lots of fun! Full Build Review Hisham

I have the first kit 38001 and it does come included with a base and has tracks plus the poles for the over head system...I am of the understanding the new kit even though its identical could possibly have two bases included plus the poles for the over head system......... I plan on getting the second new one and scratch building what is missing off the first one so they are the same type of tram but using different numbers etc to identify them

Both kits are identical bar the addition of the sign boards in the new kit see link below LINK if you click on NEWS and then the link for the new kit it will have the sprue shots pictured

It looks as though the new tram will have advertising art the first one does not. I don't see a second base, but MA is releasing a two-base tram line kit to supplement I guess.

Yes that's correct Bill... I initially thought there were two bases as seen in the MODELLING MADNESS article on the kit but the MA website shows only the one..... The double base is coming out though as you said

I bet that's going be a beast to put together and paint, I want one....