Shy about owning a MB?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 284
Likes: 1
From: New York, Westchester
2017 GLE 350 W4, 2016 C 300, 2012 E 350 W4 Lux, 2006 ML 350
Shy about owning a MB?
This may be a little silly but I just wanted to see if anyone worries about this issue or if it’s just me. I’m playing in a golf outing for work tomorrow and would like to drive my MB but am a bit hesitant because the people I work with don’t generally own luxury cars. I know if someone saw me getting out of a Mercedes in the parking lot they would think, “how’s this guy driving a Mercedes and I’m driving a Ford?” "Who does he think he is??"
I know it’s childish but I also know how people are and I know some folks would resent it. Any thoughts on this from fellow owners would be appreciated. I am curious to see what you think or if anyone has had a similar experience.
I know this sounds silly and why would anyone buy a car they felt funny owning but thought it might start an interesting thread.
Please feel free to weigh in.
I know it’s childish but I also know how people are and I know some folks would resent it. Any thoughts on this from fellow owners would be appreciated. I am curious to see what you think or if anyone has had a similar experience.
I know this sounds silly and why would anyone buy a car they felt funny owning but thought it might start an interesting thread.
Please feel free to weigh in.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 419
Likes: 16
From: NY
2014 E550; 2003 E500
People at my job dont even own a car. I have gotten the "oh, how much more do you make" and "oh, i'm not impressed". But they really will appreciate it once the shut the door and feel the quality. Just tell them you got a great deal you couldnt pass up - dont say how much, and that should be the end of it. If not change the subject quick becuase it is seriously annoying.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2007
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This may be a little silly but I just wanted to see if anyone worries about this issue or if it’s just me. I’m playing in a golf outing for work tomorrow and would like to drive my MB but am a bit hesitant because the people I work with don’t generally own luxury cars. I know if someone saw me getting out of a Mercedes in the parking lot they would think, “how’s this guy driving a Mercedes and I’m driving a Ford?” "Who does he think he is??"
I know it’s childish but I also know how people are and I know some folks would resent it. Any thoughts on this from fellow owners would be appreciated. I am curious to see what you think or if anyone has had a similar experience.
I know this sounds silly and why would anyone buy a car they felt funny owning but thought it might start an interesting thread.
Please feel free to weigh in.
I know it’s childish but I also know how people are and I know some folks would resent it. Any thoughts on this from fellow owners would be appreciated. I am curious to see what you think or if anyone has had a similar experience.
I know this sounds silly and why would anyone buy a car they felt funny owning but thought it might start an interesting thread.
Please feel free to weigh in.
Enjoy the car and forget them. You do not have to justify or explain it to them.
As a rule, if the subject of cars (or anything for that matter) comes up, I never talk specifically about anything I own. I hate those people who say "oh, let's take my (insert brand)" it only shows they have no class.
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Joined: Jun 2003
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From: San Diego, CA & San Jose, Costa Rica & Stuttgart, Germany
1959 220S / 1979 230 G / 2002 A210 AMG / 2003 C320 SC / 2004.5 C320 SS / 2005 ML350 SE / 2008 smart
my wife had this same aprehension, when she bought her very first Mercedes-Benz.
I told her exactly what UNTERTURKHEIM wrote above.
You don't have to explain yourself.
Talking about personal finances is so obnoxious and pompous.
Enjoy what you have and know you earned it. Hard work pays off, and when you set your mind to a goal or dream, no one should knock it just because you achieved it.
You cannot help it if people don't have lofty goals such as you.
If owning a Mercedes is such a lofty goal for them, then just encourage them in a positive way, and tell them that they too can get what they want if they set their mind to it.
Just drive it !
Today, my wife is completely over that aprehension, and she actually has two MB's. (C320 SS and ML350)
- What would people at work say ?
- What if they ask me to drive during lunch break ?
- Do they know approximately how much I make ?
- What if they ask me so-many questions ?
I told her exactly what UNTERTURKHEIM wrote above.
You don't have to explain yourself.
Talking about personal finances is so obnoxious and pompous.
Enjoy what you have and know you earned it. Hard work pays off, and when you set your mind to a goal or dream, no one should knock it just because you achieved it.
You cannot help it if people don't have lofty goals such as you.
If owning a Mercedes is such a lofty goal for them, then just encourage them in a positive way, and tell them that they too can get what they want if they set their mind to it.
Just drive it !
Today, my wife is completely over that aprehension, and she actually has two MB's. (C320 SS and ML350)
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 56
Likes: 0
From: Sacramento
2000 C230 Kompressor
Have you priced a Ford (Especially the SUVs) lately? After owning a Mercedes and two BMWs, I could never go back to driving an American car or Jap crap again.
Just say it was a birthday present, It'll make'em wonder even more.....
Just say it was a birthday present, It'll make'em wonder even more.....
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 624
Likes: 7
From: Las Vegas
1987 190E 2.3
I have had people in parking lots turn 90 degrees to come and ask me for money while I got into my 15 year old at the time Mercedes, the person they were heading to ask was getting into a newer Cadillac.
Doesn't matter what other people think, tell them you actually compare different cars before buying. It is better to spend a little bit more and walk away from an accident then to skimp and not.
Doesn't matter what other people think, tell them you actually compare different cars before buying. It is better to spend a little bit more and walk away from an accident then to skimp and not.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 481
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From: Kilmarnock, Scotland, UK
clk 500 2003
yeap man, u get both side's of people when u own Benz/BMW/Porsche ect.
as someone who got a new car in his first driving year(ford focus), then a BMW then a Benz i have encountered every sort.(college and work),u will always get people who say (who is this poser) but i believe they are the minority.
i am glad to report most people are extremely cool and its compliments all the way. and i must say i am surprised with how many people know my car is v8.
as someone who got a new car in his first driving year(ford focus), then a BMW then a Benz i have encountered every sort.(college and work),u will always get people who say (who is this poser) but i believe they are the minority.
i am glad to report most people are extremely cool and its compliments all the way. and i must say i am surprised with how many people know my car is v8.
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Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
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From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
I know how you feel man. Im a 19 year old punk kid Driving a benz alpine system tvs through out rims coilovers etc (all external mods cuz its a c230) but I know people look at me like how is he driving that car. Especially since
I am Black I know they think I am a drug dealer....but I actually just make websites for a living.
But either way man people are going to judge just show that just because you have a benz doesnt make you a stuck up or snobby person and they will congratulate rather than hate.
Plus i live with my parents so i don't have to pay rent!
I am Black I know they think I am a drug dealer....but I actually just make websites for a living.
But either way man people are going to judge just show that just because you have a benz doesnt make you a stuck up or snobby person and they will congratulate rather than hate.
Plus i live with my parents so i don't have to pay rent!
Last edited by paypaboi; Sep 14, 2008 at 10:13 PM.
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Newbie
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 9
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1999 CLK 430 Sport
I know how you feel man. Im a 19 year old punk kid Driving a benz alpine system tvs through out rims coilovers etc (all external mods cuz its a c230) but I know people look at me like how is he driving that car. Especially since
I am Black I know they think I am a drug dealer....but I actually just make websites for a living.
But either way man people are going to judge just show that just because you have a benz doesnt make you a stuck up or snobby person and they will congratulate rather than hate.
Plus i live with my parents so i don't have to pay rent!
I am Black I know they think I am a drug dealer....but I actually just make websites for a living.
But either way man people are going to judge just show that just because you have a benz doesnt make you a stuck up or snobby person and they will congratulate rather than hate.
Plus i live with my parents so i don't have to pay rent!
20 driving a 1999 Clk 430 AMG, I just tell everyone that I saved up for my baby and have done nothing with my life since I was 18 to afford this car. I dont drink, smoke or doing anything thats amazing in life. I just like My Audi and my Benz
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 511
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From: Nuevo México
2005 C230K Sport Sedan, 6 speed manual
Use your own good judgement. If you think driving a Mercedes will make the wrong impression, then drive something more modest that day. I have a VW Passat (newer than my Mercedes) that fills that role well; it makes virtually NO impression on people. Any common mid-size sedan (or small truck) will be much less visible.
I drive my Mercedes many places, without worrying. However, the Mercedes should be left at home when visiting people less fortunate, or when going to a job interview.
Also, my Mercedes seems to attract more panhandlers (beggars) than my other cars. They must come out of the woodwork.
I drive my Mercedes many places, without worrying. However, the Mercedes should be left at home when visiting people less fortunate, or when going to a job interview.
Also, my Mercedes seems to attract more panhandlers (beggars) than my other cars. They must come out of the woodwork.
Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
From: Texas
2008 CLK 350, 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster
Dude, no need to be shy about your ride,although, I don't think that is your issue at all. Bottom line, it's just a car man! It's an expensive one, but still just a mode of transportation. 
This question has to start with yourself. Who do you think you are when you drive your car? Do you feel any different when driving a car of greater or lesser value? You feeling like you've conquered the world when you're rolling in your Benz? If so, that's great. You've probably earned it or it was give to you. Either way, you shouldn't care what other folks think about you. Is your shyness being confused with guilt? Sounds like it is. Enjoy your ride! You sure as hell can't take it with you when you leave this place.
Not sure where you work or what you do, but I WISH someone where I work would question how much I spend on a car or anything! I hope you're not making payments on your car now. Yeah, the same car that you're letting folks who have nothing to do with you influence whether or not you drive it. I for one, am making payments on mine and if I was questioned about my ownership from someone who didn't matter. I'd simply tell them to make a payment of suck a b@ll!
But seriously, if you have to give an answer to folks at your job that make you feel uncomfortable about what you drive because they may question your salary, just tell them you manage your funds very well.
So, what did you drive? The date has obviously passed us by.
This question has to start with yourself. Who do you think you are when you drive your car? Do you feel any different when driving a car of greater or lesser value? You feeling like you've conquered the world when you're rolling in your Benz? If so, that's great. You've probably earned it or it was give to you. Either way, you shouldn't care what other folks think about you. Is your shyness being confused with guilt? Sounds like it is. Enjoy your ride! You sure as hell can't take it with you when you leave this place.
Not sure where you work or what you do, but I WISH someone where I work would question how much I spend on a car or anything! I hope you're not making payments on your car now. Yeah, the same car that you're letting folks who have nothing to do with you influence whether or not you drive it. I for one, am making payments on mine and if I was questioned about my ownership from someone who didn't matter. I'd simply tell them to make a payment of suck a b@ll!
But seriously, if you have to give an answer to folks at your job that make you feel uncomfortable about what you drive because they may question your salary, just tell them you manage your funds very well.
So, what did you drive? The date has obviously passed us by.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 284
Likes: 1
From: New York, Westchester
2017 GLE 350 W4, 2016 C 300, 2012 E 350 W4 Lux, 2006 ML 350
Please don't misunderstand me.
I love driving my Benz. It is by far the nicest car I've ever owned and I enjoy it thoroughly. I feel privileged to own one and never have regretted my decision for a minute.
I don't have a problem taking it anywhere and usually only get compliments if anything. I could care less status wise what people think about the car I drive but I do love owning it mostly because I just love the way it feels and handles. I thoroughly enjoy driving and owning my Mercedes.
That being said, work is one place I hesitate driving it to. I wouldn’t appreciate having to go through the bullsh*t inquisition I know I would get from jerks I work with. Luckily I drive a company car.
I did wind up driving my CRV to the Golf Outing the other day because my wife took the MB before I got to it, but I’m glad I did. As soon as I pulled up I was among another half dozen guys who were getting out of their cars at the same time and one of them happened to be driving a nice Acura MDX and of course one of the jackasses next to me just had to say… “Wow look at so and so with the fancy car, just a few years ago he was driving a bomb and now look at him”.
The guy didn’t say anything but you could tell he felt very awkward. What can you say, really? If a guy is a big enough Dick to actually comment on the type of car you drive, it doesn’t really warrant a reply. I guess some people never really graduate from High School cause that’s what it felt like. It’s a shame some people are such A** holes but I guess it’s something we all have to deal with occasionally.
Anyhow, just thought it would be an interesting topic.
I don't have a problem taking it anywhere and usually only get compliments if anything. I could care less status wise what people think about the car I drive but I do love owning it mostly because I just love the way it feels and handles. I thoroughly enjoy driving and owning my Mercedes.
That being said, work is one place I hesitate driving it to. I wouldn’t appreciate having to go through the bullsh*t inquisition I know I would get from jerks I work with. Luckily I drive a company car.
I did wind up driving my CRV to the Golf Outing the other day because my wife took the MB before I got to it, but I’m glad I did. As soon as I pulled up I was among another half dozen guys who were getting out of their cars at the same time and one of them happened to be driving a nice Acura MDX and of course one of the jackasses next to me just had to say… “Wow look at so and so with the fancy car, just a few years ago he was driving a bomb and now look at him”.
The guy didn’t say anything but you could tell he felt very awkward. What can you say, really? If a guy is a big enough Dick to actually comment on the type of car you drive, it doesn’t really warrant a reply. I guess some people never really graduate from High School cause that’s what it felt like. It’s a shame some people are such A** holes but I guess it’s something we all have to deal with occasionally.
Anyhow, just thought it would be an interesting topic.
Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
From: Texas
2008 CLK 350, 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster
Well, I hope the outing was great for you....regardless of how you got there.
If I were the guy on the receiving end of those comments, I would simply say, yes, I've gotten so many advances in my salary that I can AFFORD to drive what I WANT now! What's your friggin problem?
But that's me; I'm like that.
If I were the guy on the receiving end of those comments, I would simply say, yes, I've gotten so many advances in my salary that I can AFFORD to drive what I WANT now! What's your friggin problem?
But that's me; I'm like that.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
From: Galveston, Texas
2001 E430 Designo Edition, 2002 C230K Sport Coupe & 2006 C230 SS
Actually, after a while people's comments get old. Once a guy where my wife works came up to her out of the clear blue and said, "I hear you drive a Mercedes". She looked him straight in the eye and responded, " no, actually we have two". He didn't know what to say, tucked tail and walked away. For brief periods, I've owned up to four at one time. That really gets them wondering. Regardless of the age of the benz or model, to the average non-Mercedes person, any Mercedes cost $100,000!
I have three very sweet MB's in our family at the present time and when I get a comment I always just say, "thank you, we've really enjoyed it".
I have three very sweet MB's in our family at the present time and when I get a comment I always just say, "thank you, we've really enjoyed it".
Last edited by Benzalot; Sep 18, 2008 at 12:59 AM. Reason: addition
Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 241
Likes: 1
From: Las Vegas, NV
2019 AMG C43, 2019 GLC 300, 1988 BMW 528E
In the bay area, there are soooo many Mercedes and BMW drivers, it's not that big of a deal. Of course, when I see a Bentley or a Lambo, I am because those are more rare.
because those are more rare.
Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 85
Likes: 1
From: boston
2003 C32 AMG
Hi, I have had a family member who had to deal with the same situation as yourself. She had an old honda accord, and then upgraded to a C240. She kept the accord to go to work with, because she was on the verge of getting a raise, and pulling up in a benz would probably not have gotten her that raise..I agree with what most people are saying, if you can afford it, then who hell cares what other people think. Some people choose to drive economy cars even though they could afford something better. It's your life, do whatever you want. I have had to deal with this for a while. I'm 20 years old and cops stare me down ALL the time, dirty looks from older people..It's really cool when people compliment though, it makes my day, those people are cool, but as for the haters, just gotta deal with it. BTW, there's a student at my college who has an SL55, I couldn't even imagine the looks he gets.. jeez.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,244
Likes: 2
From: Vancouver
C350 4Matic
Gona be my first MB, ya im still a vergin..hahaha. Actually im getting the car for my lady. But im gona be so proud to drive it when she lets me, and even more proud to see her in it. At the end of the day everyone has different priorities and if you choose to drive a cheap car and live your life that way,good for you but im gone LIVE my life and enjoy every bit of it. My wife spends her money on the house and me on cars. I know she is the smart one, opposites attract.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 736
Likes: 1
From: Haslett, Mi
2011 E350 4matic
i am 26; i have been on my own since 18. i drove a jetta for 10 years saving up for the car of my dreams. now i have it and really dont give two hoots what anyone thinks or says. this is my dream car, i earned it and am proud of it. i dont brag about it, but i am not going to let anyone make me feel bad about working hard to achieve my goals.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 9,498
Likes: 4
From: San Diego, CA & San Jose, Costa Rica & Stuttgart, Germany
1959 220S / 1979 230 G / 2002 A210 AMG / 2003 C320 SC / 2004.5 C320 SS / 2005 ML350 SE / 2008 smart
i am 26; i have been on my own since 18. i drove a jetta for 10 years saving up for the car of my dreams. now i have it and really dont give two hoots what anyone thinks or says. this is my dream car, i earned it and am proud of it. i dont brag about it, but i am not going to let anyone make me feel bad about working hard to achieve my goals.
That pretty much sums it up !My parents and family members had Mercedes-Benz when I was growing up, but I didn't get my first car until I was 17 - a 1968 VW Bug.
Carlos
Saprissa@aol.com
Coming Soon: all the details on the
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Super Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 705
Likes: 1
From: the LA-town, CA
a w203 cÖuper
Hmmm this thread is pretty interesting.
I've had this feeling before. When people found out that i have a Mercedes benz, they would automatically ask how much do i make and how much did i get it for. Also, they would assume that i came from a rich family. And of course i tell them the truth which is i wanted a Mercedes. Nothing to brag about and its your choice which car you want to buy. You want the best out of your money. Something that you wouldn't want to regret after buying.
I've had this feeling before. When people found out that i have a Mercedes benz, they would automatically ask how much do i make and how much did i get it for. Also, they would assume that i came from a rich family. And of course i tell them the truth which is i wanted a Mercedes. Nothing to brag about and its your choice which car you want to buy. You want the best out of your money. Something that you wouldn't want to regret after buying.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 42
Likes: 1
2003 CL55
Its a free country and if you can afford it, you deserve it. I'm tired of people who spend 80% if their day complaining and 20% (or less) working.
When I'm asked how come I'm so lucky, I tell them, the harder I work, the luckier I get......
When I'm asked how come I'm so lucky, I tell them, the harder I work, the luckier I get......
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 612
Likes: 2
From: NY
'12 Mustang 5.0, '89 Supra Turbo, C55,
Tell 'em its a mass produced car - no biggie. Also, tons of used MB's are available now for great prices. One can get a used '05 CPO E500 (V8) for low $30's now (even better). Not much different from a brand new loaded Maxima or Infiniti/Lexus. So many peeps can afford a Mercedes-Benz now. That's what I would say.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
Tell 'em its a mass produced car - no biggie. Also, tons of used MB's are available now for great prices. One can get a used '05 CPO E500 (V8) for low $30's now (even better). Not much different from a brand new loaded Maxima or Infiniti/Lexus. So many peeps can afford a Mercedes-Benz now. That's what I would say.
but im so spoiled...everyone has that misconception about benz like you cant get one under 40K
But it works in favor for the ladies
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,275
Likes: 236
From: BC, Canada
2003 C230K Coupe Orion Blue
Got enough for the down-payment for my C-coupe as a co-op student. Showed up to work (my boss/president drove a Camaro) and took some coworkers for a spin. Got laid off a week later. 
Fools.
Next job - the C-coupe was the 3rd nicest car in the entire lot, only behind the President (Lexus GS430?) and VP (198 SLK) out of maybe 30 cars. And I was younger than all my coworkers' kids. Didn't help that I was the token Asian in the company, who was also the only kid from a "good" neighbourhood. Dealt with some blatant racism for a couple of years before I quit.
As for my newest job? A bunch of people drive BMW, MB, etc, so I'm just "normal" now. Just gotta find the right crowd.
Fools.Next job - the C-coupe was the 3rd nicest car in the entire lot, only behind the President (Lexus GS430?) and VP (198 SLK) out of maybe 30 cars. And I was younger than all my coworkers' kids. Didn't help that I was the token Asian in the company, who was also the only kid from a "good" neighbourhood. Dealt with some blatant racism for a couple of years before I quit.
As for my newest job? A bunch of people drive BMW, MB, etc, so I'm just "normal" now. Just gotta find the right crowd.
Last edited by slammer111; Oct 15, 2008 at 01:03 AM.
