‘Which Car Are You’ – Who is Buying What and Why?
We all know the myths about car buying too well. From hairdressers and their convertible Audi TTs to sales reps driving BMW M3s, the market is saturated with mythology and, especially if you’re someone who is relatively style conscious, navigating the ‘what car to buy’ minefield can be easier said than done. So, with this in mind, who is buying what, and why are they buying it?
Porsche 911s: For Making a Statement
The sporty looking car without the supercar price tag, the Porsche 911 feels as though it has been around forever. There are hundreds of different makes and models, from track versions to town versions to Nürburgring models and each one has a special place in the heart of its owner. Just ask Richard Hammond about the true joys of a 911.
Mainly occupied by those who are looking to relive their youthful dreams, the 911 will always be for the racer at heart, and it certainly makes a statement on the high street no matter what model you have.
Rovers: For Those in Their Later Years
Synonymous with great British motoring, the Rover has the hallmarks of everything that is great about Britain. From interior wooden paneling to engines with that typical British roar, a Rover seems to be stereotypically driven by someone who harks back to the good old days.
Unlikely to be seen in student halls across the country, a Rover feels as though it’s perfect for the older gentlemen who will pop on his driving gloves for a Sunday morning drive. We wouldn’t be spectacularly surprised to see a nodding dog in the back window too.
Jaguars: For Confirming Social Status
A step above the Rover, a Jaguar is the ultimate British icon. Can’t afford an Aston Martin (like the other 99% of us)? Then a Jaguar is just your thing. Their sheer size gives them road presence and the hood ornaments on many models perfectly confirm social status.
Looking to prove you’re moving up in the world? A Jaguar will do just that.
Do These Stereotypes Ring True?
Research carried out by AA Cars seems to (tentatively at least) confirm these stereotypes so, if they’re true, then what does your car say about you? Is your Subaru Impreza confirming that you’re a ‘young oik’ who never travels at the speed limit, or are your buddies at the bar justified in claiming that your new convertible Audi TT is a girl’s car?
No matter how we look at stereotypes, some of the old adages seem to ring true. A geography teacher, for example, will always seem to be at home in a Volvo, whereas a well-off lady on the school run will naturally seem at home in a 4×4. No matter what your thoughts are, it’s more than likely that your car gives more about you away than you’d like to think. Next time you buy, consider why you want that car, and make sure it gives the first impression you’re after.
The Last Word
There are some people who believe that what they drive doesn’t count. A wealthy investor may get a few chuckles from taking his broker out for a spin in a rusty clunker. Depreciation and all that…but most people love the idea of getting behind the wheel of their favorite car.
What’s yours?
