When BR started TPE-LAX service in 1992, ED (Economy Deluxe) was just like US$150 more than regular Y for US-TPE. So, it was a no brainer. The 747-400's ED was great - it was at the front of the lower deck too! The seats were comfortable like domestic F.

When they introduced the 77Ws, the cabin was shrunk. While I thought the seat was OK (not as good as the 744s since there was no foot rest - only the leg rest), the cabin felt crammed - just one zone and even the lav situation was not great. The price differential also kept going up over the years. So, I have been sucking it up with Y. The tick is finding a 3-3-3 77W since they seem to substitute the 3-4-3 77W based on load...

787s have no PE as others have pointed out.