Chevy Corvette's have been popular for well over 50 years.  My dad still has his Vette desperately trying to get it back running again.
Sounds like your dad needs to get his priorities in order.
I would definitely agree with you on that.  However, I think some men just have a thing for fast cars.  
When I watch movies or TV from the UK or europe, I don't see any vettes. All the cars are small, ugly, and efficient. Not cool at all. I love that. Man I hate car culture. So dumb.