π I've Spent A Lot of Time Thinking About Cars Lately And This Blew My Mind
Also: Are Suburbs Getting Better?
Happy Wednesday folks! I was busy closing down our storefront for good this weekend so please forgive me for not sending an issue on Sunday.
π What Fascinates Me About A Certain Group of Car People
I've noticed a trend where people, including myself, are gravitating towards smaller, more practical cars, and even seeking out Japanese imports and 25+ year-old vehicles to meet our needs. I've been researching used vehicles on YouTube recently, despite my initial reluctance to own a car again.
Relocating to South Carolina, the 37th best state for transportation according to U.S. News, has made me reconsider my stance. With Greenville's bus lines mostly running on hour-long headways and limited train service to nearby cities, I've had to prioritize finding a practical vehicle.
Weβve chosen to live near the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 28-mile rail trail recently bolstered by $20 million in grant funding for expansion. Hereβs what I need from a vehicle if I must own one:
Short Wheelbase: It must be small and manageable, allowing me to see everyone around me.
Hauling Capability: It must be able to transport my kid's bikes for family adventures, as well as accommodate Facebook Marketplace finds and hardware store trips.
Off-Road Ability: I want to explore the nearby mountains, fishing, camping, hiking, and more. Finding such a vehicle has been challenging, as many cars marketed to Americans in recent years are oversized and excessive for our actual needs.
Vehicles like the Jimny are perfect examples of how Japanese imports can meet the needs of those seeking smaller, more practical cars. With their compact size, versatile functionality, and reasonable price points, they offer a refreshing alternative to the oversized and often impractical vehicles that dominate the American market.
Thereβs a growing hope that U.S. carmakers will eventually follow this trend. Iβm considering options like old station wagons and the 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, a vehicle never introduced in the U.S.
Old station wagons have a timeless appeal and continue to be incredibly practical. With ample cargo space, a comfortable ride, and solid fuel efficiency, they offer a great balance of utility and nostalgia. The Prado, on the other hand, stands out for its ability to balance on-road comfort with off-road capability. It offers a robust build and excellent reliability, making it perfect for both everyday use and adventurous outings.
Interestingly, the younger generation is increasingly viewing classic station wagons as dream vehicles. Donβt believe me, watch here. The trend continues as many of the Kei car and truck purchases from YouTube are from those in their 20βs and 30βs. The irony is that the 25-year import rule makes some of the cars older than the buyer. The growing demand among younger buyers for these practical, versatile cars highlights a broader shift towards valuing efficiency and functionality in a vehicle.
Here's to hoping that more practical, well-designed vehicles will soon become the norm on American roads, catering to those of us who value efficiency and capability without the excess.
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