Here’s What Your Choice of Car Says About You

By Alex Perdikis

If you could choose any car without worrying about money, what would you buy? What color would it be? Would you want all the bells and whistles?

You might have limited options because of budget or family-size, but did you know that the car you choose says a lot about you?

Size Matters

Luxury, midsized, small — what does the size of your car say? Here’s what a UC Davis study found:

  • Small car: Most small car owners live in high-density neighborhoods where parking spaces are at a premium. They also tend to be concerned about the impact cars have on the environment. Reliability and energy efficiency are top priorities for small car owners.
  • Midsized sedans: Midsized car owners don’t have a specific personality according to the UC Davis study. They do tend to be female with higher incomes. The study suggested that midsized car owners probably used their middle-of-the-road auto as a second car.
  • Luxury cars: Luxury car owners tend to be male and/or retired and drive long distances. The highly educated and higher income population in the United States purchases most of the luxury vehicles sold.
  • Minivans: Moms and grandparents make up most of the minivan buying crowd. They are cool under pressure and haul lots of people around. Minivan owners live in the suburbs and are typically between the ages of 41 and 64.
  • Pickups: A pickup truck owner usually has a full-time, often service-related job or is a contractor within the middle income range.
  • SUVs: SUV owners live in the suburbs, are aged 40 and younger and have children.
  • Sports cars: College degree holders and adventurers choose sports cars. And, according to the study, so do a few people who just want to imitate others.   

And, the Color Is…

The color of your vehicle really sends a message. If your car is white, you’re happy-go-lucky. A blue car means you’re cautious. Black means you’re a rebel. If your car is red, you have a ton of energy. At least that’s what the research says.

You and Your Car

Marketing has a great deal to do with the vehicle specific people end up with.

 

“Auto manufacturers target groups most likely to buy a vehicle type. You won’t find ads for a sporty convertible that targets soccer moms.” — Alex Perdikis

 

Regional demographics also play a role. People who live in northern areas with tough winter driving conditions purchase cars with specific requirements to meet those challenges. They may not be the sleek luxury car of their dreams, but they maneuver through slushy roads with ease.

Of course, most people don’t get to choose a car based solely on looks. Budgets, family-size, fuel-efficiency and availability are all factors that come into play. You may want to drive a red Porsche, but it’s just not possible with four children and your job as soccer team chauffeur.

Don’t worry if what you drive doesn’t match your personality. It doesn’t matter how others look at your car as long as it gets you where you need to go.

Alex Perdikis, Koons of Silver Spring general manager and owner, lives in Chevy Chase with his wife and daughters.