EMD E9 vs. F7: A Comparison of Two Classic Locomotives

EMD E9 vs. F7: A Comparison of Two Classic Locomotives



The EMD E9 and EMD F7 are two of the most recognizable diesel locomotives built by Electro-Motive Division (EMD). Both played significant roles in American rail history, serving major railroads during the transition from steam to diesel. While they may seem similar at first glance, they have key differences in design, power, and purpose. In this article, we'll compare the EMD E9 vs. F7, highlighting their specs, usage, and legacy.

1. Overview of the EMD E9 and F7

EMD E9

  • Production Years: 1954–1964
  • Primary Use: Passenger service
  • Wheel Arrangement: A1A-A1A (two powered axles per truck, center axle unpowered)
  • Engines: Two EMD 567C V12 diesel engines
  • Horsepower: 2,400 HP (1,200 HP per engine)

EMD F7

  • Production Years: 1949–1953
  • Primary Use: Freight and passenger service
  • Wheel Arrangement: B-B (all axles powered)
  • Engine: One EMD 567B V16 diesel engine
  • Horsepower: 1,500 HP

2. Design Differences

Streamlined Aesthetics

  • The EMD E9 has a longer, more streamlined body, optimized for passenger service.
  • The F7 has a shorter, boxier design, built for both freight and passenger operations.

Wheel Configuration

  • The E9 uses an A1A-A1A wheel arrangement, meaning the center axle in each truck is unpowered, reducing traction but providing a smoother ride for passengers.
  • The F7 has a B-B wheel arrangement, meaning all axles are powered, giving it better traction for hauling heavy freight.

Engines and Performance

  • The E9 has dual engines, making it more powerful and reliable for long-distance passenger service.
  • The F7 has a single engine, which is simpler and easier to maintain, ideal for mixed service.

3. Usage in Railroads

EMD E9 – The Passenger Workhorse

  • Primarily used by Union Pacific, Southern Pacific, and Burlington Route for long-distance passenger trains.
  • Pulled famous trains like the California Zephyr, City of Los Angeles, and Sunset Limited.
  • Some units were later rebuilt for commuter and business train services.

EMD F7 – The Versatile Performer

  • Used by many railroads, including Santa Fe, Southern Pacific, and Pennsylvania Railroad.
  • Widely employed in both freight and passenger operations.
  • The Santa Fe F7 "Warbonnet" livery became an icon of American railroading.

4. Legacy and Preservation

Both locomotives are beloved by rail enthusiasts and have been preserved in museums and heritage railroads.

  • Several EMD E9 units are still operational in excursion service, especially on Union Pacific's heritage fleet.
  • Many F7 units survive in museums, tourist railroads, and short-line freight operations.

5. Conclusion: Which One Was Better?

The EMD E9 and F7 were both exceptional locomotives, but they were designed for different purposes:

  • If you wanted a powerful, smooth-riding locomotive for long passenger routes, the EMD E9 was the best choice.
  • If you needed a versatile locomotive for freight and passenger service, the F7 was the way to go.

Today, both locomotives continue to capture the imagination of train lovers and are cherished pieces of rail history.

Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

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