I like using minecarts, and I know a lot of other people do too. They're handy once you build them, because they're reliable, and you don't have to remember to tie them up. My main problem with them is that they're so loud when you use them, but it also annoys me that they aren't faster when they're so expensive to build.

I know someone at mojang also thought this at one point, because one of the pre-builds not too long ago had increased minecart speed, why can't we have it? Even if it was a medium increase, of 30-40%, it'd be really useful.

I've always wanted to be able some simple small tracks that don't need powered rails, but could use furnace carts so they could be more affordable, I don't see why they're neglected by the game when they have their uses, would it not be reasonable to ask for them to be made at least properly functional.