Other not insignificant perks to most of first class include - in general - free Wii-Fi in first class and paying for it or none in 2nd class. Yeh insignifcant to the elderly crowd but for anyone in touch a big perk!

Much bigger seats - 25% bigger and fewer in each train car - easier to stow luggage - I always do it seems on an empty adjoining seat in first class - rather then fending for room on perhaps already overcrowded luggage racks in 2nd class.

Much much easier and relaxed boarding and de-boarding as with much fewer people trying to with their baggage scqueeze thru the exits much more relaxed in first class.

Nope the difference between first and second class to anyone who has ridden trains throughout Europe is apparent and it is in no way insignificant and to say so shows an unfamiliarity with the European train system - one wonders why someone would even claim that or how they could.

In Germany and several countries holders of first-class tickets or passes have access to special lounges in stations - lounges equipped with internet, TVs, etc or just use them to rest in comfy chairs while awaiting your train. Insignificant to some a real perk to others!