I have noticed many small differences in addition to the advertised perks.
I had a delayed flight in Houston last week and recieved a letter apologizing for the delay (I had not complained either). I've also found that the Elite desk is much more willing to make things happen for you than calling the regular lines.
It seems like they understand that odds are you are a regular customer if you have status and they'll go a little bit extra to keep you flying them.
Matt