Class 158 'Express Sprinter' Profile and Models

The British Rail Class 158 'Express Sprinter' is a diesel multiple-unit passenger train (or DMU), built for British Rail between 1989 and 1992 by British Rail Engineering Limited (BREL) at its Derby Litchurch Lane Works. They were built to replace many locomotive-hauled trains, and allowed cascading of existing Sprinter units to replace elderly 'heritage' DMUs. The Class 158's sister class, the Class 159 DMUs, are almost identical to the Class 158s; being converted from Class 158 to Class 159 in two batches. When introduced, British Rail described the Class 158s as bringing "new standards of comfort and quality to rail travel on Regional Railways' key long-distance cross-country routes". As built, interiors were described as fully carpeted, with "panoramic" windows and a variety of seats arranged both airline-style and in bays of four around tables. Unlike previous members of the Sprinter family, such as the Class 156 SuperSprinter, the Class 158s featured air conditioning, an on-board payphone, power-operated interior doors, a toilet in each carriage, and provision for a refreshment trolley service. Despite an increased top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h), the units also promised a smoother, quieter ride than its predecessors.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

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