I seriously doubt their impact - especially the former. Two passes / year is nothing. It's sole purpose is to encourage membership sales.

As for the 1st year free card, IIRC you only get the 1st year free with a special promo *inside* the club. Otherwise it's just a $95 credit.

from my sample size of 1 (i.e. me) the switch to the chase club card was a no-brainer. Was already a member, got 1st year free, and $395 is a similar cost to regular membership, plus various semi-useful benefits which I use.