In 1891 a Jersey Central steam train hits 96 mph. Do you think we might be getting slower?

Question

In 1891 a Jersey Central steam train hits 96 mph. Do you think we might be getting slower?

Answer 1

You have to remember too, that the 96 mph run was a one time event to prove it could be done. That wasn't the normal running speed every day. Trains today are much heavier than ever before. And this is a factor for safe speeds.

Answer 2

i think your getting slower, mentaly and physicaly

Answer 3

Need more data to accurately answer your question.  Quantify the query.  ie Slower in regards to what?

Answer 4

And in 1938 the LNER locomotive 'Mallard' his 126mph. On the same line today trains run regularly at 125mph. So no.

Answer 5

If it made it out of Jersey!!!!

Otherwise it's speeding up!!!!!!! MORE STEAM

Answer 6

good question

but no, not really

I mean the golden age of passenger rail travel was in the 1930's and early 1940's no doubt about that.

And when one considers the size of those old steamers, running on bolted rail at the speeds they were running, it is absolutely astounding.

We are not getting slower but I dont think we have gained much speed either, more efficient, better equipment, far far less employees but . . . . . . . . interesting point though.

What was a record then is normal for these times.

Might not seem like it but we do make progress from time to time.