Luxury VS Safety?

Question

Would you choose to drive a luxury car that makes you appear wealthy & attractive to the opposite sex & handles like a dream, but the car doesn't do well in side-impact crash tests...
Or...
Would you drive a cheaper car that looks a bit odd with a brand name that's not so recognisable & gives you an average ride but it does the best in the side-impact crash tests?

Answer 1

My choices are not based on appearances to others.

I ride a motorcycle instead of driving a car.
Side impact?

The key is to not let yourself be run into, no matter what vehicle.

Answer 2

I saw a news article this morning that was discussing that. Apparently the new BMW 5-series didn't do so well in the crash test ratings as the Volvo, Acura, and other mid-models.

I think I would opt for the safer car if a) I had a family and b) if I commuted like I do now on freeways to and from just aout every place I go.

If it were just myself in the car, and I were living in the country somewhere or just didn't care, I would drive a luxury vehicle if I wanted to *that* badly.

Overall, I'd have to go with the safer car. Besides, the gas mileage is better. :-)

Answer 3

I think this question is in reference to the BMW model that did poorly in a crash test. However you shouldn't have to choose between luxury and safety. Historically, most new safety innovations first appear on high end luxury cars, such as airbags and anti-lock brake systems.

High end cars like Mercedes have historically been pioneers in auto safety design, such as crumple zones for absorbing impact, instrument panels/steering wheels/controls which are softer to the feel in case of impact, ABS, etc. Volvo has also a strong reputation for safety features as well.

Yes, the BMW model in question may have performed poorer than some less expensive models, but it does not mean that all or even most luxury vehicles are poor in safety. You can choose other high-end marques and cross index them with reports or tests from Consumer Reports, The Center for Auto Safety, etc.

Personally, I don't drive a car because it's supposed to make me look like I'm cool or rich or whatever. I choose the car based on my needs and priorities. And I also believe that ALL cars, not just expensive cars, should be safe for their occupants.