What is the fastest roller coaster in the world?
For many thrill-seekers, the ultimate roller coaster experience is riding the fastest coaster in the world. But what is the fastest roller coaster in the world? Let's take a closer look.
As of writing this in 2023, the fastest roller coaster in the world is Formula Rossa, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This roller coaster can reach a top speed of 149 miles per hour (240 kilometers per hour), making it faster than many sports cars on the market.
So, what makes Formula Rossa so fast? The answer lies in its design and engineering. The coaster features a hydraulic launch system that propels riders from 0 to 149 mph in just 4.9 seconds. The coaster then climbs a 170-foot (52-meter) hill before racing through a series of twists, turns, and drops.
Manufactured by Intamin, Formula Rossa is not only the fastest roller coaster in the world, but it is also one of the most expensive. The coaster cost over $100 million to build, and it features a variety of elements that simulate the experience of driving a Formula 1 car. This includes a red train that looks like a Ferrari and a windscreen that protects riders from the high-speed winds.
But riding Formula Rossa is not for the faint of heart. The coaster's top speed and intense G-forces can cause riders to experience a range of physical sensations, from weightlessness to extreme pressure. Riders must also wear safety goggles to protect their eyes from debris and bugs.
Other notable fast coasters include Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, USA, which reaches a top speed of 128 mph, and Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point in Ohio, USA, which reaches a top speed of 120 mph.
In 2018, I was fortunate enough to ride the record breaking coaster in Abu Dhabi and I could not stop laughing throughout the entire duration. Unfortunately, I did not take many photos but just for all of you, I have attached a terrible selfie to the bottom of this post.
In conclusion, the fastest roller coaster in the world is Formula Rossa, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. This coaster's incredible speed is achieved through advanced engineering and a hydraulic launch system. This coaster will give you a huge rush, especially sitting on the launch track waiting to be hurled up to 149 mph.