Regarding the elite pick up time, and the upgrade success rates:

I have noticed my elite success rates drop significantly since 2001-2003, though this is because of fuller capacity on the flights.

In terms of elite line, if you are SE you don't get a dedicated line only a dedicated number. I get through very fast no matter which line I dial, and it was this way even several years ago when I temporarily lost my SE status, so I think this has more to do on your intrinsic value or whatever calculation they use to determine how important you are.