I've found many Newyorkers will respond to any negative comparison of the NYC subways to other cities with a retort of "but we have 24/7 service and they don't".
I kind of feel that 24/7 service is actually one factor in why the NYC subways have so many problems - both in terms of logistics and aesthetics.
A guaranteed way to become sad, is use the Tokyo trains, then come home to New York, and use the Metro/LIRR.