what type of traction is best

[Techniquest]

I grew up in the diesel age, but follow steam aswell.

Great Western Railway and English Electric for me!!

Some bleedin' good tastes there.

After my previous post, it should be noted that I don't mind steam, and that the GWR ruled supreme in my book out of that choice, but I'll always rate diesel over everything else. I've got a favourite steam loco, 7802 'Bradley Manor', but if it was a choice of that or a HST, 37, 40...(you get the idea) then it would be the latter choice first.

 

[EE Type 3]

Some bleedin' good tastes there.

After my previous post, it should be noted that I don't mind steam, and that the GWR ruled supreme in my book out of that choice, but I'll always rate diesel over everything else. I've got a favourite steam loco, 7802 'Bradley Manor', but if it was a choice of that or a HST, 37, 40...(you get the idea) then it would be the latter choice first.

But Bradley is a cracker of a loco

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=DnEjnGbwrSI

 

[Royston Vasey]

As an enthusiast, I'd say diesel, I grew up with real stinking smoking diesels and screaming Valentas, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

On the other hand, if you say "which is best" this is probably a different question and (as discussed in the steam thread elsewhere) you can't beat the performance and emissions of electric, and furthermore, it's absolutely future proof.

I accept the point on CO2 emissions (though sceptical whether the efficiency of a steam loco is enough to outweigh the larger CO2 emssion per kWh compared to oil or gas). And remember it's not just CO2 that diesel and steam emit, and if generation is focussed at a power station that is where you can most efficiently deal with all the emissions, then you're on a winner.

Then in however many years when our power comes from nuclear, wind, solar etc etc, you need to nothing to the rail infrastructure or rolling stock.

I VOTE ELECTRIC!