In a message dated 98-02-14 20:48:12 EST, you write:

<< What happened to the KISS principle ?
 While a car speedo isn't much use at low speeds, a rev counter is. Keep a
 constant RPM in a low gear and time how long between two points.
  >>
It all depends on how much precision/repeatability you desire.  Even your
method ( a rev counter on a car) violates the KISS principle.  A more KISS
method might use the Beaufort scale which then would not even require the use
of an automobile.
John