SSD speed is relative to what software you're using. For example, I use PrintMaster to make odds and ends around the office. When on the mechanical drive it would take about 20 to 30 seconds to finish all the font reading and database setup. On the SSD same amount of time. The software has some age on it and to be blunt, it's clunky.
However, Office 2013 is a totally different story. On the mechanical drive 15 to 20 seconds. On the SSD by the time the second click on the mouse was done, it was on the screen.
It's relative to the program.
As for the vid card, was it cellophane wrapped when you got it? If not they may give you a hard time. Where'd you get it?