Actually the rental process should go better than before. There will be fewer shuttles running around with only one or two people on board so you can get to the rental facility faster. You won't notice the 4-1/2 mile trip as it will probably take the same time to get there as before (rental companies were on one road location away from the airport).

Agreed, you can see so much more with a car available. You can drive to the Palms for the BJ & Poker tournaments. Parking is easy at most casinos and it's free.