Why Do Working-Class People Buy Cars?
3 Answers
Working-class people buy cars primarily to improve their living conditions. Reasons for buying a car: According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, human needs can be divided into five levels, from low to high: physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. Factors to consider when buying a car: Resale value: If the resale value is not high, the owner's loss will be relatively large. Fuel consumption: Fuel consumption is mainly related to engine displacement, vehicle class, road conditions, and driving habits. For users, fuel consumption primarily affects the cost of ownership after purchasing the car. Therefore, for most family car consumers, fuel consumption is one of the key factors to consider when buying a car. Exterior and interior design: A car must first be visually appealing to gain consumer favor. As a result, current vehicles, whether from domestic brands, joint ventures, or luxury brands, focus on design, craftsmanship, and material quality—especially domestic brands. The stronger the power, the better, and the more abundant the power reserve, the better.
As an urban office worker, my primary reason for buying a car is to solve commuting hassles. Taking public transport like buses or subways for one to two hours daily consumes a lot of time and leaves me physically and mentally exhausted. After driving, even in traffic jams, it’s more comfortable than standing, and I can use the time to listen to music or plan work tasks. This boosts my efficiency, reduces work stress from tardiness, and allows flexible overtime arrangements. In this context, a car isn’t purely an expense—it saves on taxi fares and reduces mental fatigue, making the cost of ownership more practical than alternatives. In the hustle of city life, a car represents a sense of independence and freedom, helping balance work and personal life.
In my early 30s with a family, buying a car was purely for life convenience. Transporting kids to school and hauling big grocery loads would require multiple exhausting trips without a vehicle; public transit with children is neither safe nor time-efficient. Post-purchase, weekend family outings became effortless, holiday travels gained complete freedom, significantly enhancing domestic harmony. Most crucially, it ensures punctual arrival for urgent work tasks, eliminating public transport delays. Key considerations involve budgeting for fuel and insurance costs, but compared to the substantial lifestyle upgrade, this investment proves wholly worthwhile - infusing daily routines with reassurance and happiness.
