[criddell]

I think you underestimate just how much many people like their cars and enjoy driving. People generally spend far more on their vehicle than they really need to.

If I lived in London or Paris I wouldn't commute by car. But I don't live in a big city and, at this point in my life, I don't want to (although I'd love to have a little pied-a-terre for part time use). Instead, I live in the 'burbs of a pretty car-friendly city and life is good.