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Of course I am an H0 enthusiast (half-zero according to Henry Greenly).
The scale ratio 1:87 is the most popular in the Continent.
Due to historical-technical reasons, mainly the so-called "Berne" loading gauge being wider and taller than the British loading gauge, an average 10" long model locomotive is to be OO scale for British models and H0 scale for Continental models, to give the same satisfaction to the eye.
There were many exceptions to this rule, notably Fleischmann adopting the ratio 1:83 or 84, and Rivarossi 1:80(limited to steam motive power).
But again, Italian locos are much smaller than German engines,and the slightly bigger size restores the satisfaction principle.
According to this principle, an automobile model to fit a 10" size must be in a range of ratios from 1:25 to 1:16.
And this is why acceptance of 12" coaches has come only recently.
I hope I haven't bored you!
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