VP is better than UA E+ but probably somehow less than UA F (2-class domestic). IFE is way better than UA F (which really doesn't have a proper IFE), but probably too similar to UA lie-flat C's IFE.

Mainly the recline is limited. Sleeping is possible (YMWV) but I've also slept in E- on UA... I think the seat is *wider* than UA F, maybe by an inch, but maybe it's just the same width? Due to the shell / form factor, the PAX in front of you that reclines will not affect your voyage, whereas UA F seats will have an affect because of the recline.

VP gives a little sack (leather), better than UA C/J's sack (cloth)... meal is fine and probably on par with UA F (which doesn't say too much).

Personal space is better (as Orbitmic said) - 24 seats (3 rows) in a mini cabin that is curtained in front/back... and I learned late in the flight that there is electrical power outlet in the seat structure.

I've been told that AF E is worse than E-, so for flying a nonstop SFO/CDG, which is only currently offered by AF, I definitely felt the need for PV. I booked the trip based around when AF had 3 "adjacent" seats available in PV and bookable on AF site at time of purchase.

Hope these comparisons aren't too confusing - just ask if you want more info. I really loved AF SFO-CDG and it made a GREAT start to the trip - a nice way to fly into Paris as a tourist and a family of 3. BTW we were the only family in PV (I'm sure there were families in C and definitely Y); the age demographic was 75% of the 60 and older crowd; mostly French people.

And in hindsight with the LH strike, I'm definitely relieved to not have done SFO-FRA-CDG as I've done in the past. Just pure lucky that the UA R (NC) upgrade space for SFO/FRA is very rare, which is another reason we factored AF. And now I will only fly nonstop for this route... despite getting no UA credit and paying more.

Michae