Im slightly lost what happened here. First it was buses against trains, then when Mr Mojo was asked why buses are not as socially acceptable as trains, he suddenly brings cars into it. Where did they appear from?
If we are going to include cars, then most people would say even trains are a poor comparison.
So to be honest, im not sure where this thread is heading. But anyhow. Buses are sometimes good value for money. Lothian Buses is a good example. They usually offer a good service as well. Admittedly buses are not as comfortable as cars, but they can offer a reasonably good service, which is often cheaper than taking your car.
Onto the buses against trains part. Are we on about buses, or long distance coaches? If its buses, then very rarely are they an alternative to trains, as they do different things. Buses are more local. Trains are usually for longer journeys. This isnt always the case, but usually is. When it is possible to use both, then it usually depends how close you are to the railway station, as to what is the best alternative. If you live within say a 10min walk to the station, then a train would usually be quicker.
Now if we go onto long distance coaches. They offer virtually the same service as a train. I wouldnt use them, as i much prefer travelling by train, but the service is very similar. Assuming you travel standard class by train. The legroom on coaches is usually less, and seats sometimes narrower, but the seats on the whole are often just as comfortable (esp as i find trains seem to be getting more and more uncomfortable). Coaches are usually a lot lot cheaper though. Its this cheapness that makes them a real alternative. If it wasnt for how cheap they are, then very few people would use them, as trains are usually quicker, and more spacious, and some trains offer refreshments. Service levels though are similar, except for the possiblity of a buffet (now quite rare!!) on a train.
They are a real alternative, but it depends what you are after. If its cheapness, then go by coach. If its something more spacious, and quicker, with money no problem, then go by train.
As i said, id never travel by coach (well unless i had no option), but they can be pleasant enough, and are an alternative.
To be honest though, if you enjoy driving, then the car would probably beat them both, unless you need to work on the move. Even i usually drive when going from Kent to Scotland now, because its so handy having my car when im up there. If there was a motorail service, id possibly use that, but there isnt.
My car rivals most trains for comfort, i can listen to whatever music i like without head phones, and i can sing along to my hearts content!!
