Now that the temperature is dipping towards 32, I notice my S, which usually takes 2-3 turns of the key to get going (after the engine cools), is now consistantly starting on the first try. Is there physics at play here or just incredible luck?

 

Go to mini-talk or beneath the bonnett,...and you'll find many threads on the 3.1 fix.
The 3.1 software upgrade addresses the cold start issues and then some.
Peace,
D