Hello, I'm new not only to the message board but to Williams by Bachmann as well.  I have a question with regard to the 40201 Scale New York Central Hudson which is listed as 24 inches long and 4 inches high for $599.00 and the Golden Memories 40298 773 Hudson for $549.00 measuring 23 inches.  I have been told by stores that these two pieces are the exact same in all respects and that there is no difference.  When I inquire as to the difference in price people are stumped.  Could someone out there please help me with the following questions.
1) Are they the exact same?
2) What are the dimensions of the 773 Hudson and does it compare with the original 773?
3)  Can they both navigate 0-31 and 0-36 curves?
4)  What is the number on the 40201 (it looks like 773 in the catalog) and is it like the original 5344 from long ago?
How is the detail on these pieces as well as the sound and running characteristics?
5) Is it true that they both have a firebox glow?
I know that this may seem like a lot of questions but one of these will be my first Williams engine.  I do have passenger cars but not their engines.  Any help that can be provided (maybe a good photo of each) will be appreciated.  Also any good low cost dealers who are reliable too.  THANKS!