I don't drive a fancy car - just a little six year old Honda Civic coupe. It's reliable as hell, it is nice and fuel efficient, and it is even a little stylish. But most of all, it gets me where I need to go.
The last few days I've been driving my mother-in-law's car, which is a little Hyundai Accent. It's actually a much better car than I thought it would be. It is a bit noisy, but the engine is peppy and the car handles well. What's weird is the way that people react to me in the car.
Over the last two days I have been tailgated more aggressively more often than ever before. More people have whipped out from behind me and tried to pass me on the right only to realize there is a car in front of me and they can't get around me than ever before. And more people have cut me off than ever before. Now, a) the car is tiny, so I'm positive they can see around me...b) I'm driving as fast as I ever do in my Honda... c) yeah, I drove in Boston for five years, so I know how to guard the position in front of my car like no one's business. I never get cut off like that.
They must be reacting to the car. People do not respect the Hyundai. I find that so interesting. I've stumbled on this little pocket of unconscious aggression that I never even knew existed. I have to admit, I do tend to assume that people driving Buicks and Lincolns are going to drive slow, but that's based on years of observation. But if those other drivers think I'm going to cower just because I'm in a different car, they are sadly mistaken.
I think when you drive small cars you have to assert yourself more, just so you don't get blown off the road. That's what Ive found at least.
Imagine my surprise when I went from a great big Expedition to my Tribute...it is so true that folks act differently...and in response to your last post...I always miss hair around my ankles b/c I'm scared of a cut...I am wearing cropped pants and sandels alot lately and I am being more careful but I still see those suckers creeping out on me sometimes.
That's weird because I drive a Hyundai Elantra and have not noticed a difference. However, I DO notice a difference between drivers of SUVs and regular cars. Especially in the winter months.