I'll try to answer your question briefly (besides surfing SDN I do study). Beware of what the M2's told you about the new curriculum. Whenever I do tours with them, they get stuff wrong, which isn't their fault (stuff is just constantly changing as plans become more defined).
1) I like the new curriculum. Compared to previous years, we aren't in class as much and we have nice small group sessions weekly. In fact, we have the same small group and leader for two years, which makes it very much a family type atmosphere (lame as that sounds). Organizing things by systems makes a lot more sense than just learning all the biochem of the body seperately from everything else. It provides a framework for things. Plus, as we go along they make us realize that we are slowly becoming able to diagnose things, which would be a lot harder on a non-system curriculum I imagine.
2) There have been a few small logistical errors (nothing more than mildly annoying for a lecture or two), but the administration is REALLY friendly, and quick to try to fix things.
3) This doesn't have to do with the curriculum, but I think a lot of our professors rock. Seriously, they are the type of people who I want to be like. The pathology professor is the same guy that has taught EVERY SINGLE WORKING MICHIGAN DOCTOR. Think about that. Although he's in his late 70's I think, he's more active and in better shape than my parents (much younger). Its nice to have teachers you have on a regular basis who are good role models.
4) Also unrelated to the curriculum, profs in different departments often have people over at their houses. I've only gone to two, but both are members of the Institute of Medicine (pretty select group of physicians) and are well known. I think its pretty cool.
5) As for academia. Hmm. I'm from the south and had no intention of leaving unless I found a school I really liked that was really good (and got in obviously). I'm not sure if I want to go into academia, but I want to leave that option open. Yes, I know a lot of people who are very interested in research already, which is probably a larger group than your run of the mill state school. As for rankings. I dunno. If you want to think along the lines of of good undergrad -> good med school -> good residency -> good fellowship -> success in academia, then yes, Michigan is great. Unlike certain places that definitely want people going into academia, Michigan leaves the option open. If you do so decide to go in that direction, I don't think you'll run out of resources. Just about all our departments are amongst the top in the country, so you'll give yourself a boost. On the other hand, if you are a really amazing person, then you can go to your state school and still get an amazing residency. (As a side note, don't use your undergrad performance to gauge this.......med school...not just at Michigan.... has turned a lot of people's worlds upside down).
6) Ideally, if you knew exactly what field you wanted to go into, you could go to the school that has the best department, but most people I know are pretty undecided or know that they will most likely change their minds. Don't find yourself in a situation where all the other departments are unable to assist you in your goals if you decide to go into a different field.
7) Another thing on the new curriculum, our second year is shorter (we take the boards pretty early) and we start 3rd year earlier. THe goal? So that we can do more electives, specifically in 3rd year. I'm looking forward to that.....
I think that's all. Let me know if you have any other questions....
seriously though, sunny and goodmonkey make valid points. it's possible to take the weekend off. in truth, the reason why i take quizzes monday morning is because i don't study enough during the week, and because saturday is completely devoted to college football. but ummm... come on, let me whine! 
