The MR is a two-car multiple unit built for the DSB and modeled after the class 628 of the Bundesbahn. Originally each unit consisted of two identical, four-axle cars, powered by a 320 hp Deutz diesel engine with hydraulic transmission. Up to five two-car sets can be operated in multiple. Additionally, a singe passenger, baggage or mail car can be hauled. In 1978, the first 30 were built at Uerdingen in Germany and then production continued in Denmark at Scandia.

Later, Scandia built MRD cars with a baggage compartment. Now each MR was coupled to one MRD, leading to 98 pairs. They were often used to replace old MO railcars. Between 1995 and 1997, the MR and MRD sets were modernized in Germany. In this process, their top speed was increased from 120 to 130 km/h. From 2003, the DSB leased some to Arriva. Two years later, others were sold to Arriva for use in Poland. The last ones in DSB service were withdrawn in 2019.