My family is all in the West and Pacific Northwest, about 3500 miles away. My car gets about 50 mpg at highway speed. You do the maths.
I've taken the train from Boston to Denver two times, sitting (and trying to sleep) in coach. For one person, it's not that bad, although it is actually more expensive than flying. Personally, I don't mind it, there are a few breaks along the way, and you can get up, get a snack, walk around, see some nice scenery.
The farce that gets me is that GWB and his administration say AMTRAK has to make a profit. Like the airlines are making a profit on their giveaway prices, and all of the extra expense for security?