How Car Guys See Cars vs How Normal People See Them (aka the two types of people in this world)

"At Rides and Reviews, we don’t just break down horsepower and features — we talk about what it feels like to love cars."

Once a legend said

“It's what non-car people don't get. They see all cars as just a ton and a half, two tons of wires, glass, metal, and rubber. That's all they see. People like you or I know, we have an unshakable belief that cars are living entities. You can develop a relationship with a car, and that's what non-car people don't get. When something has foibles and won't handle properly, that gives it a particularly human quality because it makes mistakes, and that's how you can build a relationship with a car that other people won't get.”

— Jeremy Clarkson

The "Normal Person" Perspective: Cars as Practical Tools

On the flip side, most "normal" people view cars in a completely different light. To them, a car is a necessary part of life but rarely something to obsess over. Here’s how the average person typically sees a car:

1. Functionality First

For normal people, a car is a means of getting from point A to point B. It’s all about practicality. Does it start when you need it? Is it reliable? Does it fit your lifestyle? These are the questions that matter most to the average person.

For some, it might mean choosing a car that gets good gas mileage or is reliable enough to survive a daily commute. For others, it's about finding something spacious enough to accommodate family trips or just something that fits their budget. As long as it gets the job done, they’re happy.

2. Maintenance and Cost: The Bottom Line

While car guys might spend hours in the garage tinkering with their engines, normal people are much more concerned about how much the car will cost to maintain. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and making sure the car doesn’t break down are what’s important. The cost of repairs and maintenance plays a huge role in their decision-making.

The idea of tuning or modifying a car is foreign to many non-car enthusiasts. They simply want a car that’s low-maintenance and won't drain their bank account with constant repairs or upgrades.

3. Aesthetic Value (But Only to a Point)

While normal people can appreciate a good-looking car, they often don’t spend time obsessing over the finer details. A sleek, stylish car can be nice, but it's not going to influence their decision to buy one unless it fits into their budget or lifestyle.

For most, the color or model of the car is secondary to practicality. It’s the kind of thing that catches the eye on a sunny day, but it’s unlikely to spark deep admiration. A normal person might say, "Hey, that’s a cool car," but they’re not likely to know or care about the specifics that make it cool.

4. Tech Features: Nice to Have, but Not a Priority

Car technology does appeal to the average person, but often it’s the more practical features that stand out. Things like Bluetooth connectivity, a decent sound system, rearview cameras, or parking sensors are the kinds of tech they look for. The high-tech gadgets or advanced driving aids may not excite them, but a car that makes driving easier and safer will always grab their attention.

The "Car Guy" Perspective: Cars as Art, Performance, and Identity

For car enthusiasts, cars are so much more than just vehicles—they're an extension of who they are. Car guys, or "gearheads," often have a deep connection to their vehicles that goes beyond mere transportation. To them, cars represent a blend of artistry, engineering, and performance. Let’s break down how car guys view cars:

1. Performance Over Everything

For a car guy, horsepower, torque, acceleration, and top speed are at the top of the list. A car isn't just about getting from A to B; it’s about how it performs along the way. Whether it’s a turbocharged hatchback, a roaring muscle car, or a finely tuned sports car, performance matters.

Tuning and modifications are a huge part of car culture. From swapping out exhaust systems for a louder rumble to upgrading suspension for better handling, car guys are always looking to squeeze out every bit of performance from their ride. The goal is to make their car perform better than it did off the factory floor.

2. Design & Aesthetics: It's All in the Details

Car enthusiasts often see their cars as rolling pieces of art. Every curve, every line, every detail on a car can make the difference between a good design and a great one. It’s not just about how the car drives; it’s about how it looks. A sleek exterior, aggressive stance, or the perfect wheel design can make a car stand out in ways that non-car people might miss.

They’ll notice subtle design elements like the angles of the headlights, the shape of the grille, or the unique finish of the paint. It's about appreciating the creativity that went into the car’s design, something that a casual observer might overlook.

3. Car Culture: It’s a Lifestyle

Owning a car for a car guy often means being part of a larger community. Car culture is filled with car meets, track days, and social media groups. Whether it’s showing off a pristine restoration or racing a modified car at a track, car enthusiasts enjoy sharing their passion with others who understand it.

For them, cars aren't just about transportation—they’re about expressing themselves, forming friendships, and celebrating a shared love for vehicles. This community aspect is one of the biggest draws to car culture.

4. The Latest Tech and Innovation

Car guys tend to be early adopters of the latest car technology. From the newest infotainment systems to the most innovative engine technology, they’re always on the lookout for the next big thing in automotive advancements. They pay attention to everything from hybrid engines to autonomous driving features. For them, these innovations aren’t just a convenience—they’re a game changer.

In the End, It’s All About the Ride

While car guys and normal people may view cars differently, both groups rely on their vehicles for the same basic need: transportation. And in many ways, these two types of car owners complement each other. Car guys bring enthusiasm, innovation, and a passion for performance to the automotive world, while normal people keep the wheels of everyday life turning by simply enjoying cars for what they are.

So, whether you’re into racing, tuning, or just need to get to work, the car is an essential part of life. And no matter how you see them, we all rely on them in our own way.