217 ฿ is not on every train if you take rapid it will be 217 express more and special express more and more also First class is available on Famous Express train and All special express train
Evidently there are faster, newer express trains which by their nature are considered First Class. I have found paying for first class anything in Thailand is worth every penny. Except accommodations. They have great middle and budget accommodations everywhere. The really high end hotels are quite expensive and not worth the $$$$ IMO.
