I wonder why Factorio PvP is not so big. (I also have never tried.)
Are there rules, like you cannot attack each other until a certain time limit or tech threshold?? I guess if the win is determined by a tech goal, that keeps things on track...?
There are many configuration options in the PvP scenario: screenshot
So you can create a match to suit the people who are going to play it.
You can also set it up so you don't even fight each other, just working cooperatively from separate factories with independent research.