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Home > Archives > Amfleet coach car No. 21135, 1970s.

Amfleet coach car No. 21135, 1970s.

Color slide showing Amfleet coach car No. 21135 as part of a larger consist; image likely dates to the late 1970s.

Amfleet coach car No. 21135, 1970s.

In late 1973, Amtrak ordered the first of 492 single-level cars, known as Amfleet I, that were based on the design of the popular Metroliner. With tubular bodies and ridged stainless steel fluting, they could reach speeds of up to 125 mph.

The Amfleet cars came in five configurations, including the Amcoach shown here that was intended for use on short-distance routes. Weighing in at 106,000 pounds, it had 84 seats in a 2x2 configuration versus coaches with 60 seats used on long-distance trains. The coach interiors incorporated bold color choices such as red striped upholstery for the seats.

In early 1980, Amtrak ordered an additional 125 Amfleet II coach cars also for use on long-distance overnight routes. They are similar in exterior appearance to their Amfleet I predecessors, but include only one vestibule and were modified on the interior for a more spacious layout.

Photographer: Unknown for Amtrak. From the Amtrak Corporate Collection.