Before nervous, frightened people in denial of their own conspicuous mortality decided to remove yet another source of fun and excitement because of the irresponsible actions of a few.
In general, driving is not a source of fun and excitement. In fact, commute times are strongly and negatively associated with self-reported happiness.
People drive for reasons other than commuting, of course. I happen to like driving (especially since I learned to drive a manual). I'm sorry if you don't.
Your last point is certainly true. I used to commute to work via a combination of bike and train; getting a car cut my commute in half, and I am decidedly happier for it.
In general, driving is not a source of fun and excitement. In fact, commute times are strongly and negatively associated with self-reported happiness.