Why do people spend so much time and money on cars?

[kurosh]

Why don't most people realize how much of a waste it is? Do they realize how much cars depreciate in value? What is the point of spending so much money on a flashy or fast car?

Do you need it to get girls? I can understand that, as sad as it may be.

I like a fast car too, but not enough to waste 10k-30k+ to make it accelerate to 60mph a few split seconds faster.

Most of the people buying these expensive cars can't afford them either. You put yourself into debt for this? Is a status symbol worth this much to you?

IMO, a car is for getting you from one location to another in comfort and safety. I would rate the most important factors in buying a car reliability and safety. Who gives a [censored] what your car looks like or how fast it is? Douchebags, no one I want anything to do with will judge me based on the car I drive.

FWIW, I make a decent amount of money and I drive a 1994 Nissan Altima. I bought it for $1500. I will drive it until it dies and then spend no more than 1% of my net worth on another used car.

EDIT: This wasn't meant to be an attack on people who do this. I'm not referring to car hobbyists and such. I honestly want to know why.