Both have Canon motors
Both use RCMC control subsystems
Both support the LCS IR sensor track and have downward facing IR transmitters.
Both support Sequence control with automatic dialog features.
This is where the difference kicks in.
The newer version 1931350 (note no leading 6 there on 19 and up number systems)
ADDITONAL FEATURES only found on the newer model:
- Whistle Steam
- Crew talk recorded with the crew of 611
- Bluetooth control
http://www.lionel.com/products...j-class-612-6-11414/
VS
http://www.lionel.com/products...j-class-603-1931350/
Last, that said, it should be noted that there was also some concern about the stripe color detail on that specific newer version, You should probably check to see if that one is original or repainted?
https://ogrforum.com/...-j-stripe-resolution
Excerpt from that post:
Please read the details of this offer below, this pertains to the following LEGACY J locomotives: 1931340, 1931350, 1931360, and 1931370.
Thank you for your patience in this matter and continued support.
Customers who are not happy with the color of the stripe have two options:
- Return your locomotive to your dealer for a full refund. Dealers may choose to resell the locomotives themselves or Lionel will honor all returns from dealers brought in for this purpose.
- Contact Harry Hieke directly and make arrangements to have your locomotive repainted and re-lettered by him directly. You can do this via email at harrys_trains@comcast.net
- All arrangements must be made through Harry on or before 2/29/2020. This will ensure that he can order enough materials on his own to cover all of the expected projects. Starting March 1, 2020, Lionel will no longer be taking returns or paying fees related to the color of the stripe.
As a summary, the newer engine has newer features, but then also may be subject to the specific issue of the stripe color in the paintwork.
