Last Semana Santa I made the mistake of not purchasing my AVE tickets far enough in advance so I had the opportunity of taking the first (preferente) and club classes. I definately would not pay extra for these services again-it's just not worth the extra expense in my opinion.
For both classes you get entrance into the lounge at train stations - similar to the airport lounges with free drinks, newspaper, etc...
In first you get a meal but you don't get a choice. It's basically similar to the service we used to get on the airlines when we traveled across country. In club you order from a menu for your meal. Now, about the meal.....I love spanish food
, but this was the absolute worst meal I have ever had in spain. It was the blandest meal I've had in my life. I even had to add salt (which is unheard of for me in Spain)
It was nice having extra legroom and our carriage was in the front of the train so we got out first (and to the taxi stand first). But really not worth the extra $.