I don't know if change of gauge originated in the UK, but in Europe there is a change of gauge for through trains between France (standard gauge) and Spain (broad gauge.)

At border stations cars are usually put on different trucks. There are a few trains that have trucks that can change gauge, such as some of the Talgos.

Change of gauge also occurs between western Europe and Russia, which has a broad gauge.

Here are some commonly used rail gauges:

Standard gauge: 1435 mm - 4'8 1/2"
Broad gauge (Spain): 1674 mm - 5'5.90"
Broad gauge (Portugal): 1665 mm - 5'5.94"
Broad gauge (Ireland): 1600 mm - 5'3"
Broad gauge (Finland): 1524 mm - 5'0"
Broad gauge (former Russian Fed.): 1520 mm - 4'11.6"
Narrow gauge (Africa): 1067 mm - 3' 6"
Narrow gauge (meter gauge): 1000 mm 3'3.37"
Narrow gauge (US): 914 mm 3'0"



[This message has been edited by hsilbiger (edited 11-27-2000).]