Whilst having the same laptop 8470p, Ive had a somewhat different experience.
Yes, I had to replace the wifi card, but I knew that beforehand, so ordered one read to go in asap.
I installed using clover, which, in my opinion is far better than chameleon, and makes use of the laptops UEFI boot, completely "standard" install following the clover guide, couldn't of been simpler.
Camera works on every app without issue, in fact, everything works as it should that I use, the only things not tested, as I don't care are the VGA port, and card reader.
so +1 for the elite book here (if you don't mind the smaller screen, and lack of numpad)
edit*
money wise, I picked up my elite book 8470p with over two years HP warranty remaining, in mint condition, for a little over £300..