Do you think of your 997 as an "exotic"?
12-15-2010, 02:34 PM
#46
Three Wheelin'
I think 98% of the population would consider a $100K+ automobile with basically two seats and minimal luggage capacity as an exotic. Those of us who own these cars are probably a little desensitized as to what most people think is normal or even rational to spend on a vehicle.
That said, call me irrational, because I don't consider my car an exotic, at least not in the same sense as a Ferrari or Lambo.
That said, call me irrational, because I don't consider my car an exotic, at least not in the same sense as a Ferrari or Lambo.
And as _Nathan mentioned, perspective - and even locale makes a difference for sure in perception though. I was down in Bainbridge GA (very southwest rural GA) and saw a Cayman in parking lot. Sitting there, it was the most exotic thing in the lot - along with my car (which somehow didn't count to me) - and it really stood out as something special. Whereas in Atlanta, I'd barely give it a thought.
Exotic:
1. of foreign origin or character; not native; introduced from abroad, but not fully naturalized or acclimatized: exotic foods; exotic plants.
2. strikingly unusual or strange in effect or appearance: an exotic hairstyle.
3. of a uniquely new or experimental nature: exotic weapons.
4. of, pertaining to, or involving stripteasing: the exotic clubs where strippers are featured.
I think a 911 barely ranks in the definition though - the 959 and CGT, sure - and the 918 as well if it gets done.
Although, my car does give me a stripper buzz sometimes - it just looks hot.
12-15-2010, 03:35 PM
#47
Rennlist Member
Even in Houston (which has a surplus of expensive and rare cars) I routinely have people pace me on the road and take pictures/video of my car. That's exotic enough for me.
Maybe it's just the orange wheels. I dunno.
Maybe it's just the orange wheels. I dunno.
12-15-2010, 06:03 PM
#49
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Obviously, all this is relative both to our own expectations as to car expenses and also the local culture. Maybe especially the local culture.We've had people commenting on threads here and at Six Speed that obviously can afford several Porsches but are concerned that their peers -- obviously not in a poor neighborhood -- will think less of them for being ostentatious about their wealth. By owning more than one Porsche that is. And I've read people who hide their single Porsche from business associates, all for similar reasons.
What I find interesting is how often 'exotic' carries a negative connotation, even for people who already own a car that is clearly considered very special -- to say the least -- by the rest of the population.
Gary
12-16-2010, 01:50 PM
#50
Burning Brakes
12-17-2010, 03:24 AM
#52
Three Wheelin'
It's quite the place to get a good car drool going. It looks easier to find a Z8 than an e39 M5.
12-17-2010, 11:39 AM
#53
I don't think you can separate the GT3s or Turbos from the others if you're going to have a discussion about perception. For any ordinary person they wouldn't know that there is such a range of engines, suspensions, etc. A 911 is a 911 is a 911. Otherwise, a top performing Mustang should be considered exotic.
Where I live, no one even realises that my 996 is eight years old. I keep it polished people think its brand new. In that sense, it's exotic because people have seen so few of them that they can't determine anything about it, other than it's more expensive than they'll ever be able to afford (little do they know how inexpensive they are now, used).
Where I live, no one even realises that my 996 is eight years old. I keep it polished people think its brand new. In that sense, it's exotic because people have seen so few of them that they can't determine anything about it, other than it's more expensive than they'll ever be able to afford (little do they know how inexpensive they are now, used).
