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But, don't judge people by what they drive, it's kind of reverse snobbery.
As someone who might buy a Ford ConFusion, I totally agree. As Kierkergard(sp) use to say, "Dude, do not label me... lest you negate me."
Nothing wrong with enjoying the finer things in life.
I do agree that many people that drive luxo cars are snobs. I guess my point is that there are people who buy luxo cars because they just appreciate the engineering etc., and so please don't lump everyone together. I don't like people who have to name drop what they drive, I don't associate with those people. I have one friend who drives a 1976 (I believe) Malibu, and I don't think one bit less about him. He hates all car manufacturers (I mentioned before when his new Nova leaked water and the trunk filled up the salesman put his arm around him and said "Jimmy, Jimmy, Jimmy, think of it this way, how often does it rain?.) He probably has saved a lot more money than me, but it doesn't matter. Another friend will only buy used cars, he can't see paying for the first few years depreciation. I worked very hard to be able to get the car I want, and I don't have the time or patience to worry about my status in the world.
But, like I said. I might have said the same thing 5 years ago if i hadn't experienced the difference. Most cars will get you from point A to point B, why do people pay more for something. There is a difference and I don't mind paying to enjoy the difference.
Thanks verdugo for clarifying the other viewpoint.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
All your points are exactly right and puts things in perspective. Especially, like slam the door on a Mercedes (which is actually like a vault -even better than a BMW in that regard) and even a Ford Fusion or as you say Asian car. Exactly the reasons some people prefer luxo cars.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Jip, you have a way of putting things in perspective and I am glad not everyone equates Luxury car = snob.
I even have trouble calling them luxury cars. I think they are just better engineered and unfortunately, do cost more
Jip, If you are considering a Furd ConFusion I say go with it. It is good basic transportation and has a lot of extras like outside thermometer, door ajar lights, this all surprised me. I would compare a Malibu (personally I didn't like sitting in one...felt like a dark pit" and Corolla and Hyundai probably.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I have one such picture on my cellphone. Thanks for the Idea
a large percentage. yes.
Any car, except a Honda. Dang, the used ones sell for more than a new one sometimes.....
>drempt
dreamt.
Why in the world would one slam the door of their car?
I have seen people who slam the doors of their bedrooms too, unintentionally.
For me, that is an insult or a sign the person is angry.
A lawyer opened the door of his BMW, when suddenly a truck drove past hitting the door, ripping it off completely. When the police arrived at the scene, the lawyer was complaining bitterly about the damage to his precious BMW.
"Officer, look what they've done to my Beemer!" he whined.
"You lawyers are so materialistic, you make me sick!" retorted the officer, "You're so worried about your stupid BMW, that you didn't even notice that your left arm was ripped off!"
"Oh my god", replied the lawyer, finally noticing the bloody stump where his left arm once was, "Where's my Rolex!"
VIN 2MEFM74V58X638933
VIN 2MEFM74V68X643817
Never driven a Fusion (and your spelling of the name is very telling) but I have driven a 5 series (cant drive the 3 to small for me) and I can say that the drive and handling while better than most 20+K cars but not worth twice the price.
But, don't judge people by what they drive, it's kind of reverse snobbery.
I don't I judge people on how they act, now if the consumers of a certain product mostly act the same way then its not my fault.
By the way, I have owned the worst old used cars any person has owned
So you're the one who bought my Camaro.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
The people who can easily afford these luxury cars, I mean multi million rich, are the nicest and most approachable. They never show off or ware expensive jewelry, and you can’t tell how rich they are just by looking at them.
Very well put.
A few truly appreciate what goes into fine items, while the majority acquire them because Madison Avenue (&/or their peer group) have convinced them that they are lesser human beings without a (fill in the blank).
However, such fears of inadequacy are much of what keeps the economy humming (in good years), so what's not to like?
That's a funny joke oregonboy. But, it's "Bimmer"... not "Beemer".
Anyway, I was thinking Richard, I think the white looks better than black, and it is SAFER.
(But I really like that bronze bottom with it)
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
To me it is worth twice the price. The superior handling might even save my life. The extra airbags and safety features are worth 15 or 20K to me if I can swing it.
I don't I judge people on how they act, now if the consumers of a certain product mostly act the same way then its not my fault.
I guess the problem is the luxury car is worth it to people who do appreciate it, but there will always be morons who will take a good product and think it will raise there status. It doesn't make them better human beings, in fact they are so shallow they have no character worth trying to relate to.
By the way, I have owned the worst old used cars any person has owned
So you're the one who bought my Camaro
I am sure my 1st car a1969 Austin Sprite was worse...a quart of 40W oil a day.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
For me, that is an insult or a sign the person is angry.
My wife slams the car door even though I try to tell her it just needs a gentle push. Haven't seen her slam the bedroom door though, not yet.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I think you are right on with your comments on this topic. I see people in big houses driving less expensive cars and some people in less expensive houses who drive more expensive cars. I don't think most of them drive their particular make of cars because of status. Some are more frugal than others and they buy CRV's though they could afford a Mercedes...it's just there priorities are different. Now there is one lawyer who is very much into status and I am sure he buys the most expensive Mercedes he can afford....but that's up to him, I don't have to say anything more than hello to him.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Sometimes you crack me up. Did you not see my capital "P" in Polo, as in Ralph Lauren?
Richard
May only the finest Persian carpets of golden threads carry you to the inner most heights of eternal happiness. :shades:
Richard
No GM's today. I just came in from doing an eight hour workshop out of town. While the $1k consulting fee is nice, I am reminded of why I retired.
As for that black GM, it is 7 hours away (424 miles). I showed it to my wife for fun. Would you believe that she said, "If you want that one, I'll ride down there with you." I bet that she just wants a big box of candy Saturday. :P Don't forget guys, Valentine's Day is Saturday. I don't want any of you sleeping on the back porch Saturday night.
Hey, I know that you know that I know, so it's okay.
As a point of interest, I became a member of the BMWCCA in 1969 when I bought my first car; a 1967 BMW 1600. It was definitely NOT a status symbol back then. Very few people even knew what it was. :P
The BMWCCA newsletter referred to our cars as "Bimmers". :shades:
My sister and brother-in-law are both doctors. He drives a ten year old Lexus bought new. She drives a three year old Honda Pilot. Yet, they own two McMansions, one in N.C. and one in Florida. I guess it is where you place your priorities.
Before I became an administrator, while still teaching school, I bought a new Lincoln Town Car. You should have heard my co-workers: "Well, aren't you the big shot." "Are you still speaking to us lowly ones?" "Who do you think that you are?" How did I respond? I didn't. I don't have to justify my spending to anyone other than myself. We manage our money carefully. If we decide that we want something, we buy it. Was I being a snob? No. I fell in love with the car---the way it drove, the way it looked, and the wonderful way that it made me feel each day. Yes, I guess that it did make a statement about me---good taste and an appreciation for something nice in my life. I can't apologize for that. Someone once asked me if I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I responded, "Certainly not, but that doesn't prevent me from liking silver spoons." Good taste doesn't necessarily equate money. It does equate an appreciation for the finer things in life. Actually, the FINEST things in life include freedom, health, and happiness.
Richard
That was probably the best response. I am sure most of them were happy for you but lacked the communication skills to express that properly.
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
You know something. It is a comfort late at night knowing that you are on duty. I don't feel as if I am up by myself. I stay so busy during the day, this time of night is usually when I can respond to posts without being bothered by the telephone, the dog, the door bell, etc. I hate to post one after the other, but so few of the posters are up this late. It seems like I am hogging the thread. Still, the guys are nice about it. I think that I will go to bed "early" tonight. :P
Richard
Remember, you can sleep in your car, but you can't drive your house to work.. :shades:
I like that! Especially true in many states! (OK and some provinces - don't want to be bias)
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Every time I see a white Crown Vic or Mercury I think it's an Ohio State Patrol car.
And white is safe. The OSP had gone to a steel gray color and found they didn't show up at night after one was hit by a driver IIRC, so they went back to all white cars.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Since I am the "safety monitor" I am glad you supported my comments on this issue :shades:
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard, I am glad you related this story. It is what I am trying to explain. After much thought and deliberations I certainly do concede there are a lot of superficial people who drive luxo cars....I never really thought about this too much before, because I try not to associate with those people. (I also don't associate with whiners, and hypocondriacs who want to tell you about all their pains, illness's and meds)
On the other side, I think some people hopefully, understand that some people buy luxo cars because they appreciate fine cars....and not all luxo owners are trying to make a statement......or try to climb the social ladder thru a car.
P.S. as far as I am concerned I understand completely why you go on and do all your messages at one time, no problem.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Damn it, that’s twice in two days that someone has me figured out. First it was ‘houdini’ with his comment about me possibly being a ‘stealth millionaire’ and now you.
I’m just going to have to go undercover and change my handle but then again that ain’t gonna work because my writing style would probably give me away. :surprise:
FWIW, that part about being “nice” well, I don’t want to change that.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Ain't that the truth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now you’re getting it.
Like ‘houdini’ said in post 38785, about the “upwardly mobile young women in their twenties” who drive 3’s. I work as a consultant for the same company that I retired from. They can’t hire enough people fast enough because they have gotten several massive contracts the last couple of years (I remember the lean times that we endured and this is a very welcome relief). Anyway, there has to be at least 6 young ladies that I know of (and there are more than that here) that are recent graduate engineers in their early twenties who drive 3’s. So, don’t try to convince me that they bought these cars for the “driving experience” because they haven’t found their way to and from the ladies room yet without getting lost.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Now, high school is a different thing (according to my son the senior). Talk about "you are what you drive!" Not like when I was in school, and you were hot stuff just having anything to drive better than a bike (or riding the bus).
Doesn't help I guess living in a town with some very wealthy areas, so there are "cool" kids with new mustangs, their own range rover, etc.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Ditto, Stickguy. And it drives me nuts! Back in late '04 as I was shopping for a new ride, I narrowed it down to '05 G35, TL or MB E320! I really liked the E (something Freudian, as throughout my very early youth, my mother the Realtor drove MB sedans) but just could not justify the ~$20k price differential over the G/TL. Bought the TL, very happy. Still admire the E.
I'm always in the "My next car will be the one I truly want! Damn the torpedos, price is of no concern, the kids can get scholarships, who needs heat!" mode. Yet, my inherent cheapness continues to rule the day!
Oh, well. Next car=personal bankruptcy!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
The bigger wheels with lower profile tires will definetely make the car look better. What color is it?
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
If white is safer, then why is color not used to set insurance rates?
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
:P
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
Never said it was. I'm not quite early adopter on electronics, but I'm sure I subsidize plenty of people
In one way or another we all subsidize each other with something.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Couldn't have said it better. And I bet those people you describe above are not lr44's clients.
There was a (really bad) tv show on recently called operation repo. There were some people who had their fancy cars repo'ed at the same time that their big boats were being repo'ed. And you know their house was heading into foreclosure too. :sick:
Ain't that the truth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
......and a BMW in every garage.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Maybe they are looking for the "husband" experience.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
It should be (but insurance companies aren't looking for extra ways to save you money, and make more calculations).
Swedish study shows black is a risky colour
A study of 31,000 crashes in Sweden1 found that black cars were involved in 22.5% of the crashes even though black cars made up only 4.4% of the vehicle population.
This means that black cars were 5 times more likely to crash.
According to the same study, the safest car colour was pink.
Maybe that's what Richard should be looking for?
Safest color, surprisingly is "silver" followed by white. White loses a bit because it isn't as visible in certain conditions, even though it is brightest.
more.......
silver cars were 60 percent less likely to be involved in a serious injury than the control group--white cars. Even when the adjustments for confounding variables were removed from the data, silver cars were still 50 percent less likely to be involved in a serious injury accident than white.
If silver is safest, what are the least safe? Dark earth tones. Brown vehicles were 110 percent more likely to be involved in an injury accident than white cars, when the adjustment factors were taken into account. Black was almost equally bad at 100 percent more likely and green cars were 80 percent more likely.
So if dark colors are unsafe, you might figure that bright colors like yellow and red would be safer because they are more likely to be seen. Well, yes and no. On unadjusted bases, both red and yellow vehicles were viewed as much more likely to be involved in injury accidents, but when adjusted for all the other variables, they actually registered as being safer than the control color of white.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250