Locomotive 424
Locomotive 424 is the most famous steam locomotive produced once in Hungary. The best steam locomotive type of the Hungarian State Railways was beyond doubt the Class 424. It was very popular both inside and outside this country. 424 appears in numerous nostalgic remembrances, in polite literature, in the movies and on the tables of many fans as models. If people hear the word Locomotive 424, this engine, which nickname was "Buffalo", appears in their memory as a huge, double chimney machine, which never failed to impress its onlookers.
MÁVAG began to manufacture the Class 424 in 1924, with 2D axle layout. It made its test run between Budapest and Vác on 22 April 1924. The planning was led by Béla Kertész (1862 – 1970) locomotive constructor.
The 424 was a universal main line locomotive. It was used to haul heavy freight trains, stopping trains and express trains as well. The 424 locomotives are well known abroad as well. This fact can be attributed to its characteristic appearance and good service features.
Until 1958, 514 machines were produced, what of 149 was foreign order.
