Back on subject to the original question- the answer is yes.
I've had 20+ years of the 'West Coast' MK3's, yes I missed them.
I was a bit apprehensive of the Pendolino, but my worries were soon gone.
I travelled a few years back on a GA set of MK3's- no happy memories returning- We sat in standard on the way back.
When I say sat, I meant knelt on the seats because of the length of my legs - in fact I stood up for most of the journey. Same in 1st, no leg room and low seat height.
So to me the Pendolino have been a god send.
You have just reminded me...
I commuted on the WCML for 4 years with Virgin pre-Pendolino (just), and have used the WCML roughly once a month since the Pendolinos arrived.
The Pendolinos are unquestionably more comfortable - seats, ride, better facilities. AND much quicker and much more frequent.
Two other things. I’ve never had to stand on a Pendolino, unlike the old days where I was standing almost every Friday night and more than a few other evenings and mornings. And I’ve never been on one with failed aircon - in summer with the old stock it was close to an even bet that at least one coach would be out.
I will say I was worried about motion sickness before I used one, as I get sea sick on just about anything larger than a dinghy, but never had a problem.
What’s not to like?