I think there are 2 factors that come into play here. That's the "awesome" feeling of old and the music. IMO Naruto used to have better music that highlighted the fast paced action of some of the most memorable fights, when now it uses more dark or heroic tones. Plus that "OMFG" moments are rarely present as already stated. While the manga has a few of those moments in check, I don't know if the animation studio will be able to use the perfect score to complement them.

Also, I do feel like a lot of the old characters have been forgotten. Apart from Naruto and Sasuke, only Shikamaru has had a brief spotlight after the time skip. I'm definitely waiting for new stuff from Neji and Rock Lee. Would also like some more backstory on the Hyugas, now that one of the more recent characters had a Byakugan. Ever since Sasuke vs Orochimaru, it has pretty much been "Teh Sasuke Show".