I think it all depends on the reason why you bought the car. When my last cars transmission went I figured I should get a new car for the reliability and a hybrid as my commute was long. It was nice to have a new car, but as you said: driving is driving. What really made the difference for me was seeing how I only had to fill the tank once a week or week and a half for $20, and now that I'm closer to work it's only once a month.

Just having a new car is cool and all, and there's peace of mind for having reliability, but if there is a more specific reason why you bought this car you might find more enjoyment from reflecting on that aspect. :)