Versatility is a single word that sums up the Mikado-type steam locomotive. This 2-8-2 wheel arrangement became the "one size fits all" in terms of mass usage across North America's railroads.

Bruce's The Steam Locomotive in America that 6,800 Pacifics ... most famous steam locomotives in the world are part of the 4-6-2 family: A3-class No. 4472 Flying Scotsman and A4-class No. 4468 ...

Around 100 years ago, many Americans got their entertainment from watching two steam engines crash into each other.