Thinking about a Montreal - Toronto train trip

Hmm...tough call! Thank so much for the information! Of course, I'll plan on returning before long, hopefully for a longer stay next time, so what I don't do on this trip I can plan for the next.

Does VIA use the LRC and Renaissance consists interchangeably, or do they get assigned consistently to particular routes and trains?

Well, as it turns out, I didn't have time to make any trips on VIA. I was limited on time, and decided to see as much of Montreal as I could. Also, after a 12 hour ordeal on Amtrak, I didn't really feel like spending more time sitting on a train, even if it was a fast one!

So, next time I think I'll drive, and then take a trip on VIA while I'm up there.

It's too bad you didn't have a chance to ride a VIA train this time around and, after your ordeal on the Adirondak, it's understandable. For future reference, VIA uses LRC, Renaissance, or Budd equipment on specific trains and routes fairly consistently, but unusual consists show up sometimes.