What’s the better Strata-coaster, Kingda Ka or Top Thrill Dragster? You’re going to find a lot of varying opinions on the topic. While I’ve yet to ride Kingda Ka, it’s pretty safe to say the two are completely different rides.
You might be thinking, “Why am I qualified to say anything about Kingda Ka when I’ve not ridden it?” That’s a valid question, one that I can’t answer. However, considering Top Thrill Dragster was the first strata-coaster, it should always be considered the original and far superior to Kingda Ka.
In my honest opinion, Kingda Ka will never match Dragster. I say this because the theme for Kingda Ka isn’t a prolific as that of Dragster. The atmosphere Dragster has surrounding it is far superior.
Actually, they named Kingda Ka after a Bengal Tiger
Designers made the coaster to look as if it’s in the Asian jungle. With Bamboo running along the queue line, it might be better to look at than Dragster on some aspects.
From what I’ve seen, it’s definitely not good enough to topple it.
Top Thrill Dragster doesn’t need a fancy queue line or mythical tiger to surpass Kingda Ka. It’s racing theme fits perfectly for a ride of its caliber.
The launch takes you over 100 mph. In fact, the setup gives you the feel of an actual drag racing car. With details such as a checkered flag end points, it’s the little things that make this coaster.
I’ll admit that the backstory behind Kingda Ka is a lot more original than Dragster. It’s one reason why I’d like to ride Kingda Ka at some point. Unfortunately, with the two rides being so similar, I don’t see any reason why I’d pick against Dragster.
Of course, I’m biased because I’m a Platinum Pass holder at the Cedar Fair park. But when it comes down to it I’m just not that excited to ride Kingda Ka as much as I am for a repeat ride on Dragster.
Don’t get me wrong, I do love Six Flags ( I’ll be going to Great America this Summer ), but being so close to two Cedar Fair parks has spoiled me.
In the end, the two coasters are extremely different to me. I don’t need to ride Kingda Ka to know this.
Regardless if they are both Strata-coasters, and even if Kingda Ka is faster or taller, it’s about the experience I have on Dragster. Personally, I don’t think any ride will replace that.
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