Nothing matches it, even today.

I agree ... Love this one ... I do wish I could remove the 80's soundtrack though :)

It's awesome...watching it max rt now

First saw this around 1998-2000. I thought it had an almost "B movie" feel, but WELL done! Repeated viewings have brought me to realize it IS a timeless classic in every sense of the word. Jon V. has NEVER acted like this before or since. John Ryan is also stellar. This film has a distinct and unique personality all it's own, NO doubt! It's been on Cinemax almost daily during Feb. '16. Watch it (again!)! Soooo great!

You're right.

I don't get the hype. The performances are almost universally bad and dialogue does it no favors. Some decent action scenes are what keep it remotely watchable.

Today was my second rewatch. This movie is raw, harsh, hard and powerful.

I guess Joe Carnahan's 'The Grey' (released in 2011 and starring Liam Neeson) is a recent existential action movie that comes close to 'Runaway Train' and is preoccupied by some of the same questions, with a similar ending.
It also takes place in a cold environment with an almost black and white, colour drained photography.

Truly a masterpiece.