A 1981 Collector Series offering was Lionel's Chicago & Alton "Alton Limited Red Train" release. A handsome 4-6-4 C&A Hudson (No. 6-8101) powered the set. Departing from what was usually Lionel standard practice, the stock number is not the number found on the engine. The C&A Hudson carries roadnumber 659. The engine featured Magne-traction, electronic whistle and steam sound, plus puffing smoke. The Lionel 1981 catalog notes the tender is a new die-cast metal offering. Typical of Lionel Collector Series passenger car sets, the Alton Limited had five cars. The heavyweight cars included: a baggage, combo, two passenger coaches and an observation. The set was sold separately by Lionel.