Just on the average what kind of time savings am I looking at driving from place to place?
Generally, from resort to park entrance, you'll save anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes by driving yourself (based on traffic, how long til the next bus, etc.) for all the parks except MK. Since busses drop you off right at the MK gate versus at the TTC, you'll get there quicker by bus.
Also, if you want to go to DTD, one of the water parks, mini golf courses, or to another resort from your own, driving yourself will save a ton of time.
Generally, the time saved isn't huge. But couple the few minutes saved with the ability to come and go when you please, and where you please - for a lot of people, it's the better option.
Again, don't get me wrong. You don't HAVE to have a rental car in WDW. You'll manage just fine without one... they have a pretty efficient mass transportation system - which is free for guests to use. But if you're like me, its just easier for me to have my own vehicle for the reasons I mentioned above.
Either way, you're in the most magical place on earth.
And Big Cheese - I wouldn't wait 70 minutes for any ride, even Soarin. And I never have. But that's why I love FASTPASS. :animwink: