will this transformer be powerfull enough to run a legacy diecast steamer with 9 plastic passenger cars 18 inches long.
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Ironlake2-
Probably not; the 80 watt transformer has about 4.5 amps of usable power, which would be mostly gobbled up by the electronics and motor on the locomotive. The additional 9 passenger cars (each illuminated with incadescent bulbs) would easily consume the remaining available power.
I would recommend a 135 or 180 watt powerhouse to avoid overloading the 80 watt transformer.
-John
I over loaded my first CW80, and it tripped a fuse in it, and with those darn triangle head screws, I still haven't opened the transformer, even after four years. I don't like the CW80's, and will only use them (the two I have(one broken)) for the accessories.
The CW80 is a good transformer for its intended use. Pulling a Legacy steamer would not be a big deal and pulling 5 lighted passenger cars would be okay but 9 would be cutting it close. Just remember to correct the short when the light starts flashing since letting it go will cause the internal fuse to blow. It can be replaced and I did one but it is not easy to get it all back together.
I've used a CW-80 to run my old 2046 pulling 5 illuminated coaches. So it should manage a modern can-motored locomotive without problems. I too would think that the number of illuminated coaches would be the main limiting factor for you.
I'd suggest that you raise the voltage slowly if you think that the load may be too high. This tends to reduce the instances of the flashing green light a fair bit as you don't suddenly throw a maximum load on the controller. 
Have you thought of installing an Ampmeter and Voltmeter in line? I have read where
several of the members use this method to keep check on the output of their xfmr.
I suggest you use the search section we have for possible solutions and to further help
educate.
My Santa Fe A-B-A FT diesel set with 7 lighted cars trips the breaker. You're going to need more than a CW-80...
I put my fluke digital multimeter inline tonight with the transformer and the maximum current draw was for a split second at 4.00 amps with the average draw at 3.61 amps. I think I should be ok with the cw 80 on this draw. That big legacy articulated does not draw much current. The cars draw 2.8 at 18 volts and the engine is always the same draw no matter what sounds it is making even when blowing the whistle. What do you guys think? That pitman motor is quite efficient.
If it doesn't work, you can always add more power.
If it does, you saved some money.
Good luck!
