We’re all used to talking excitedly about cars, but some people just don’t get that. To try and bridge the gap between car people and those that lack an interest in anything on four wheels, we turned to you.
This morning, we asked what was one thing you wish non-car people understood about cars. Here are some of your answers.
“That it is not about the cars. It is about being part of a community that shares your passion for something. Meeting new people. Sharing ideas. Inspiring each other to be more creative. Push the limits. The cars are the common denominator in a very diverse group of people from every walk of life.”
An interest in cars opens up a host of discussion topics with other fans, such as what is the most overrated feature on modern cars, what’s the most indestructible car or how weird it is that some people don’t like cars.
Suggested by: Brent Hagist (Facebook)
“I wish they understood that a car with more gadgets/technology gizmos/conveniences/”luxury” features isn’t necessarily a “better” or more desirable car.
“I usually get more pleasure out of being able to feel the road through the steering linkage, modulating acceleration/deceleration through the brakes, and shifting gears for myself rather than having some technology do that for me.”
We’re conditioned to think more is better. But when it comes to driving, sometimes a simple machine packs the most fun.
Suggested by: JimEmery
That some people actually view a car as more than just a bunch of metal, plastic, and rubber. Some people it releases stress , and a lot of people don’t see that.
Some people do yoga, other people go for a drive. Which camp do you land in?
Suggested by Alex Pintado (Facebook)
“The satisfaction of replacing old worn out parts off an old car and installing new quality parts. Dialing in a new carburetor on an old rusty truck and taking it for a spin is uplifting and inspiring. There’s a deeper metaphor hidden in there somewhere.”
Locking yourself away in a garage or shed to meticulously care for your precious car unlocks a special kind of joy that few other pursuits can match.
Suggested by: @Clevlndsteamer
“Not to get wrapped up in zero to 60 times. Performance numbers don’t matter. Soul is what makes a car great.”
It’s tricky to explain to a non-car person what it is that gives a car soul, but some vehicles have tons of it!
Suggested by: Chris Andersen (Facebook)
“Transit systems exist. It is cheaper, more sustainable, and better for just about everyone. If you truly don’t care about driving nor find it enjoyable, please consider transit. Otherwise you just become unhappy traffic congestion and brake riders on the twisty roads. If you are a non-car person, go non-car!”
If you don’t like driving and live somewhere with a good mass transit system, take the train! You’ll save yourself the pain of parking, clear up the roads for other drivers and help the planet.
Suggested by: futuredoc
“I wish I didn’t have to explain how spending money on my vehicle is not an investment and that’s okay. I may never get all my money back out of it, but that’s not the point of being an enthusiast. The point is enjoying the driving experience. If that takes a few (expensive) tweaks here and there, then so be it. Installing shiny new parts and reaping the benefits is where all the value comes from. No matter the cost.”
Upgrading your car probably won’t bring financial gains, but it will pack it with fun-ancial gains. OK, I’ll show myself out.
Suggested by: Jeremy Johnston (Facebook)
“Driving and Commuting are two different tasks, Commuting is a chore and I hate it too.”
Nobody likes the stress and turmoil of commuting. But taking a few hours out of your day to explore new roads and routes in your car is a totally different activity.
Suggested by: @Tiezep
“Learning how your car works inside and out will save you a ton of money in the service department.”
You may not want to learn to fix everything about your car. But, learning about its workings and internals can help foster a relationship with your vehicle.
Suggested by: Jason Celi (Facebook)
“Lightweight is more important than power and range. Screw 5,000lb ‘performance’ EV’s. I want an electric Miata under 2700lbs. If I have to live with 200-mile range and only 250ftlbs of torque I’d still be happier with the lighter weight as I grin stupidly hucking it hard into a corner.”
Sometimes you just need to drive a light, sporty car to understand what’s so great about driving. May we suggest you test out a Miata?
Suggested by: weeks151