Why Are You Here? What brought you to car culture? Maybe you have to flash all the way back to your childhood to answer that. Or maybe – this is a brand new obsession. It’s cool either way. But think about what drew you in… the core emotions & attractions? And more importantly… what’s gonna keep you here. That’s the million dollar question isn’t it…
It really started bugging me by my late-20s…
That cars are materialistic at their core. That’s an unfortunate truth of car culture. And to a certain extent, you can throw your wallet at this, and buy your way in so to speak. Unless you’re racing/welding/etc… there’s not a whole lot of skill, athleticism, or technique in having a cool car. Annnnnd that opens the door wide open for wieners, posers, and slack-talkers. BUT – there are also priceless & rewarding character traits that can be found in car culture. Traits that add style, grit, gumption, and flavor to your whole life… well beyond what you drive. And in that way, it’s almost impossible to imagine life without this.
So what are you in Car Culture for?
Be truthful with yourself. Or lie to yourself lol… it doesn’t matter to me. But are you here in the search for clout? Attention? Popularity in a digital world? Are you mostly just here to stir the pot in comment sections? Maybe you’re trying to impress the opposite sex (does that even work anymore?), gain a little status, be seen in a car that gets some attention? Or – are you here because you actually love the core-elements of what car culture represents? See, in my opinion, the only acceptable answer to all those questions is that last one. You should be here out of love. Not pride, not popularity. and definitely not clout. Let’s break it down.
The Clout Chasers…
We all know ‘em. These are the folks who modify their car strictly for The ’Gram. They gotta take 2-dozen photos every time they park it. And they always seem a little too distracted with posting & reading their own hype. It may all look slick on social media, but it’s not a good look IRL. It’s cringy when everything’s done for clicks. And that’s the problem. If your passion is measured in likes, follows, & shares… you’re not chasing your enthusiasm… you’re feeding your ego. Haha – maybe the lines blur a little.
The Validation Seekers…
This group’s a little sneakier. They’re not as obvious about it, but they need acceptance like an engine needs oil. Everything move is followed up with, “What do you guys think?” Or, “Hey guys, which mod should I do next?” Don’t get me wrong – community matters. Getting feedback from your friends is part of it. But if your car is just a checklist of what the internet told you to do… you didn’t build that car… the internet did. Honestly, this was the downfall of the import/sport-compact scene. If you need to be told you’re good enough, I’ll tell you now – you’re good enough. Glad we got that cleared up lol. Because on a serious note: Seeking validation is the antithesis of true car culture.
The Pot-Stirrers…
They’re not here for the cars; they’re here for the conflict. They live in the shadows of the comment section with their thumbs primed and ready. Controversy is their fuel. They love to bait people with half-baked takes just to get a reaction. And they claim to be enthusiasts, but they never show love – only hate. Debate is healthy. Trash-talk is tradition. But if trash-talk is all you bring to the table, you’re not a car enthusiast – you’re a keyboard gladiator. And no one wants to meet those in real life.
The Show-Offs…
Now this one’s a gray area. Because let’s be honest – we all show off a little. If you say you don’t… you’re lying. The difference is why you’re showing off. Showing off your ride, your work, and your style is cool. But then there’s showing off in a materialistic sense. If your motive in showing up is to outshine the next guy, or to flash money – you’re doing it wrong. True car culture is about common ground, creativity, & kindred spirits. Not making your bank account your personality. Money can’t buy authenticity.
The True Enthusiasts…
Now we’re finally getting to the good part: The people who live & breathe this stuff. They’re not here for fame, fortune, or internet credits – they’re here for the experience. There’s a natural grit-factor in what they do. An undeniable sense of authenticity. Their car isn’t just transportation – it’s therapy on wheels – from the garage to the driver’s seat. They’re addicted to the sights & sounds. They enjoy driving, they welcome the challenges, and they crave the adrenaline. It’s a good bet they despise things like convenience, apathy, and autonomy. And that’s why, when they park it, they always glance back as they walk away. Not for a selfie, but because it means something. They’d do it if it wasn’t popular. And that’s the difference between a phase/fashion… and a lifestyle/obsession.
Love Is The Only Fuel That Lasts…
All the other reasons burn out. And look – we all have that voice inside that wants to be cool, popular, and acknowledged. We want to matter in something that matters to us. But at the end of the day, pride fades, algorithms change, and trends blow in & out with the breeze. But real authentic love – that don’t fade… it engrains. So let me ask again… why are you here?
Article by David S. Windsor
