conversation: User (byhoung): "Hi personalfinance,\n\nI'd like to get an idea of what car you drive in relation to your salary.\n\nFor me: No car/55K\n \n \nEDIT: Wow! This is some great insight! I've been shopping around for cars, but I have no idea how much I should spend on one. I was going to buy a 20K car, but now I'm having second thoughts. It's motivating to see those earning 70K+ and still frugal on their cars!"
  Self: "2012 Volvo C30 R-Design. I make 78k.\n\nI wanted something nice and I typically keep my cars a long time and take care of them. With used car prices being at an all time high, a 5 year warranty/maintenance included, a 2.5% interest rate, and knowing how it's been treated from day 1, I decided to take the plunge. \n\nI could have spent less, but still budget things and try to find a balance between having nice things (you only live once) and planning for the future.\n\nEdit: Prior to this, I owned a 1986 Toyota MR2 for nearly 7 years."
  gen3ric (gen3ric): "I don't know why people would downvote due to car type to income ratio. It's been brought up earlier, but if you enjoy a car or cars in general, why not? People all have their vices.\n\nI was a former gear head, but I still think having a halfway decent car is quite nice. Good choice btw."
  Self: "Yeah I used to be into autocross on the MR2 and now just wanted something nice and reliable to keep 100% stock (keeps resale up too). And thanks!"
  