At best Mars will end up being a scientist outpost similar to those in Antarctica today. Hardly a model for a new world colony. Where are the cities, cultural centers and transportation in Antarctica?
At worst, death and money lost.
On the other hand Musk’s revolution in space acces is useful for Earth to Earth transport, and defense against comets/ asteroids.
Jamestown, Virginia was founded in 1607. They started with wilderness and began building from that point.
Antarctica is reserved as a scientific preserve by international agreement. Outside of a century old whaling station, there wasn’t interest in other settlements.
If we cannot make it in Antarctica, we dang sure cannot make it on Mars...