"getting a run at it" often does work if slow and steady doesn't work (i.e the pulling vehicle doesn't have enough traction). But you need enough slack to get the pulling car moving.

This is never a good idea as straps and chains have no "give" so all that energy you're putting into the strap will be released instantly once it goes tight, which will impart the same amount of force as if you were crashing into one another at the same speed (possibly worse since cars have crumple zones to reduce impact forces). Many people have died doing this when the part they're attached to shears off and gets launched through the window of the opposing vehicle along with the strap/chain.

They make recovery ropes that are specifically designed for this purpose that act like a giant rubber band and spread this force out over several seconds so you can pull with more speed safely.