I've got at least one of both the Atlas and Athearn articulated racks...actually, while i only own one of the Athearn ones, i own 4 of the Atlas ones, with a couple more comming next release. I like the Atlas ones more, as they look better then the Athearn ones, especially where it counts...around the articulation section. But, the Athearn are still nice...i'll probably buy more of each. I need more autoracks.
I've got a 3% grade and some 11" curves on my layout, and both take them fine. Don't look stunning doing it, but they do work fine. My layout isn't large, but it's not small, and they look fine on it.
AR