description LNER Class A4 Sir Nigel Gresley Overview
The LNER Class A4 Sir Nigel Gresley is a British steam locomotive built in 1938. Notable for its speed and elegant design, it was designed by Gresley himself to compete with contemporary diesel locomotives. This particular example represents the pinnacle of express passenger service during the era of the London North Eastern Railway. It’s now preserved and operated by enthusiasts and railway heritage organizations, offering a unique glimpse into steam power history.
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LNER Class A4 Sir Nigel Gresley ranks #25 of 248 in the Locomotive ranking, behind Pennsylvania Railroad K4s Pacific, ahead of New York Central J-3a Hudson.
balance LNER Class A4 Sir Nigel Gresley Pros & Cons
- Elegant streamlined aerodynamic design
- Outstanding speed capability
- Reliable express passenger service
- Expensive preservation maintenance
- Limited mainline running days
help LNER Class A4 Sir Nigel Gresley FAQ
Who designed the LNER Class A4 locomotives?
The Class A4 locomotives were designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, Chief Mechanical Engineer of the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). The locomotive bearing his name, No. 60007 "Sir Nigel Gresley," was named in his honor.
Did an LNER A4 hold a world speed record for steam?
Yes, LNER A4 No. 4468 "Mallard" set the world speed record for steam locomotives at 126 mph in July 1938, a record that still stands today. The record was set on a slight downhill grade near Grantham on the East Coast Main Line.
Is the locomotive Sir Nigel Gresley still operational?
Locomotive No. 60007 "Sir Nigel Gresley" is preserved and has been operated on heritage railways and mainline railtours in the UK. It is maintained by the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Preservation Trust and has undergone periodic overhauls to keep it running.
When was the locomotive Sir Nigel Gresley built?
No. 60007 "Sir Nigel Gresley" was built at Doncaster Works in the late 1930s as part of the A4 class. It was originally numbered 4498 and entered service during the golden age of British express steam locomotives.
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