I have been reading the Amtrak Northeast Timetable and I found something odd. The Acela Express advertised as approaching speeds "up to 150 mph" isn't really any faster than the Metroliner. Average speed, based on the time table from Philadelphia to Wash. DC is 84 mph. Metroliner Business Class ticket round trip between Phila. and DC is $190. Acela Express for same trip and same class is $212. What are they paying for? Gourmet coffee and a bagel?
Posted by MPALMER (Member # 125) on :
JimmyMac,
The Acela is not much faster, but it is smoother and quieter. I leave it up to you to decide if it is worth the money, but I thought it was great.
M Palmer
PS You can discount the Metroliner further with AAA; no AAA discounts for Acela.
Posted by lakeshorelimited (Member # 576) on :
In my opinion it would be. Ride a metroliner, then ride an Acela, and you'll notice a huge difference. The brand-new trainsets are more comfortable and better riding than any amtrak train I've ever rode in.. Whether this comfort is worth the extra price, that's up to the consumer. You're right.. the advantage of the Acela Ex over the Metroliner isn't as much the speed.
Posted by dguruswamy (Member # 1330) on :
Here's the difference:
1) Metroliner = refurbished Amfleet 1 with all its failings 2) Acela Express = all new train benefiting from 25 years of technology advancements.
I always feel a little tired from all the bumpiness, noise and rattling riding any Amfleet equipment (be it regional or Metroliner) on the corridor (hint... stuff shakes, rattles and feels bumpy at 120 that is fine at 60mph).
When I ride Acela Express I feel like I'm ready to rock and roll after getting off the train. It's basically a much smoother ride. Anyway, the Metroliner's will be down to a handful of runs by the end of the year so you won't have that much choice.
Posted by Amtrak207 (Member # 1307) on :
If you wanted to take a tour of the Alamo and walked in the gate, turned around, and left before setting foot inside was it worth it?