We often believe that a car reflects who we are, which is why we spend so much time deciding which one to buy and why we are often drawn to fashionable brands and logos. For instance, many people dream of having that classic Mercedes badge on their car or the iconic prancing horse of Porsche. But there is more to a car than just the emblem. You can tell a lot about a person by their vehicle, from the way it looks on the outside to the little details inside.
Down and Dirty
Have you ever seen a car that looks like it hasn’t been washed in years? It might even have a message scrawled in dust on the back window that says, “Wash me.” You might assume that the driver is on a tight budget, but in reality, the opposite is often true. According to surveys, people with higher incomes are actually less likely to wash their cars, letting them gather dirt and grime. No one is entirely sure why, but unfortunately, skipping car washes won’t make you appear wealthier—most people are unaware of this trend.
Clothes Hung in the Back
A car with clothes hanging behind the driver’s seat likely belongs to a business professional. It may seem like a traveler’s ride, but neatly hung garments suggest they’re avoiding wrinkles for a meeting or interview. These drivers are often on the road late at night or early in the morning, which can be risky. According to accident attorneys like Alpert Schreyer, fatigue and stress are leading causes of collisions, so keeping your distance is wise.
Get Low
Some cars hug the road so closely that speed bumps become a nightmare. Sports cars often have a low design, making city streets a challenge, and some regular cars sit too low as well. Owners modify these vehicles for speed and cornering, usually for racing. However, lowering a car without expertise can be costly. That said, if done by a skilled expert, a lower ride can improve performance and handling.
The Midlife Crisis Is Real
At some point in life, many of us develop a need for speed. This typically happens between forty and seventy, when incomes are high enough to justify splurging on a high-performance vehicle. Once people hit seventy, the urge fades. They often switch to an SUV or a practical, fuel-efficient car. A 2016 report linked declining sports car sales to baby boomers aging out and Generation X not yet affording luxury models.
A car reveals a lot about its owner, from how they drive to how they maintain it.
