Four Wheels

For me, a car is a car! Just a mode of transportation. A vehicle of convenience to bring me from point A to point B. But for some, a car is more than a car. It is a status symbol which defines their identity and success in life. People have different preferences. Some like their cars to be sleek, fast and flashy. Some, like theirs to be huge - King of the Road. Others, like theirs to be old (vintage).

Me? I prefer mine to be safe, reliable, practical and economical. Hence, a Japanese car will do just fine. Anyway, my wife is already my precious BMW!**

Photo: Our 2002 model Honda Accord, which we paid just below US$ 9,000 (S$ 14,000) for it. At 2.2 litres, it is the largest car we have owned. Originally, we wanted to buy a smaller car (Honda Civic) but were advised to get a bigger one because it will be more comfortable and safer for long distance driving. Also, the extra power will come in very handy in wintry and snowy conditions.

TIP: Before we agreed to buy the car, we sent it to an independent mechanic to check out the condition of the car. It was given a clean bill. The US$ 25 is worth paying, for the peace of mind since we know nothing about car engine and maintenance. When buying second hand cars in the US, it is also important to find out the history of the car. For a small fee, you can request over the internet a vehicle report which will tell you the number of previous owners, whether the title is clean, any recall by the manufacturer and if it has been involved in any insurance claims or accidents.

So far, the car has took us to Pittsburgh and East Virginia without any hiccups. We hope to get more mileage out of it. Another reason why we choose a Honda is because it is the most popular model in Happy Valley. This is an important consideration as it will be relatively easier for us to sell the car, and hopefully, at a good resale value, at the end of our sabbatical.

Interestingly, Japanese cars are very popular in US. Much more popular than the US models. Note that in Pennsylvania state, it is not mandatory to place the licence plate at the front of the car. We only need one at the back. For those who are into the "number game", our car licence plate is:

** BMW stands for Be My Wife?, which was what I asked her to be when I proposed to her!