[readingnews]

Hrm, I guess I _am_ getting older. Now that I think about it, I have owned a car for about 35 years. When I got the first one, used, it was $500. Insurance was high, but not insane like today (my children do not drive, as I can not afford the insurance). I recall that back then (we had BBSs, FIDOnet and USENET groups) it was still an item that gave you freedom. You needed it to visit people or go to the cafe which was far away.

I think as time progresses, I have truly learned to dislike my car(s). Insurance where I am is out of control (one of the highest in the nation), a new car is so far out of reach it is not funny, and used ones cost far more than the last new car I purchased. I think as others have noted, there may be a number of factors leading to people not wanting them... A few young people I know do not have cars, when asked the reasons are typically money (biggest one) and pure need / desire. I think when we were young it was as symbol of freedom. I think now it is (rightfully so) either a status symbol to some, or a ball and chain that costs money just sitting in your driveway (maintenance, depreciation, insurance).

[lamontcg]

I'm from the same BBS/Usenet era and I used to be heavily into cars, now I can't imagine spending >$30k on a massively depreciating asset. I also hate how cars have become massive steel tanks on wheels.