I'm betting that is probably the case. Having the luxury of modern FI makes the old carbs pretty archaic when it comes to cold weather. Being able to turn the key and just walk away from a vehicle without messing with the gas pedal is something we have all gotten very spoiled with in this day and age. Even older guys like me.
Heck, I've removed every choke out of every carb I've ever owned. Just get used to pumping the gas and feathering the throttle when it's cold out. It turns into a real rodeo while driving a 4 speed.
Gary