Realistic Looking Simutrans Models

[Fuzzy Peach]

Would anyone know how i could make more realistic looking models for simutrans.

[ӔO]

create the models in 3D and render them to 2D.
depending on the size, add/lessen the amount of detail.

[Fuzzy Peach]

Would this work for vehicles, and how would i make the sides look realistic.

[Zeno]

You can use real texture mapping techniques using 3D software; that means like "covering" 3D models with real images/pictures then rendering 2D. Anyway it's tricky to make a "realistic" model to look nice in such a small render (128px).