As an owner of a land development and construction company I see it as a self-aware to drive a used GMC Sierra when I visit the job site. I think is relays a better message to those making far less money than I than it would showing up in a very expensive truck or car.... particularly at the age of 36. I find this to be contextually dissimilar to what one would choose to drive privately on a daily basis - although I would show restraint to what I would show up to the office in.
Going off-topic here, but that's SOP here, so I might as well!!
I've always been interested in the culture of how cars fit into our perceptions. When I was in consulting, I drove my Mercedes sedan to work and clients perceived it as a wise choice, reinforcing their opinion of my competence. The car was a luxury car indicating my success, but "inexpensive" enough that I was obviously not foolish with money and made quality choices.
The Porsche always stayed home. At age 30, driving a 190E or C-Class was statement enough.
My wife received negative comments by the truck-load for driving her Mercedes to work. Teachers make HOW much money? Yadda-yadda, on and on.
