[RayChuang88]

I also think that people forget in Europe, the distance between major population centers are short enough that high-speed trains are viable. The best example of this is the Thalys service (jointed owned by SNCF in France, NMBS/SNCB of Belgium, and Deutsche Bahn in Germany), where 300 km/h (186 mph) train service links Paris with cities in Belgium, the Netherlands and some cities in Germany--and it is a very popular service.

[lodi90]

Most people in Europe do not live in American style housing. They have less personal space and a lower standard of living. Smaller houses, smaller cars, higher taxes, etc.

[kabar]

Also, it is expensive to own a car in Europe with taxes on everything including the price of gas.