If getting some sleep Eastbound is most important, then by all means choose Virgin's Upper Class over the United's "old" C.

I wouldn't add an extra connection in FRA unless your final destination is in mainland Europe - geesh!

But 1K for a whole year is nice too! And even the old C on United is not too bad, especially when you're traveling with others who may think it's luxurious!

What about the possibility of paying a coach fare on United, with a good chance of an upgrade - these flights haven't been too full in C lately. Save several thousand dollars and upgrade your hotel room instead?