Audi Drivers are not Flashers

[Pete Kraus <Pete_Kraus@EMORY.ORG>]

While it's true that these days most drivers assume oncoming flashing
headlights are a warning that smokey is on the prowl, I have a slightly
different take on the subject of Audi camaraderie.  Most Audi drivers, at
least in my neck of the woods (Atlanta, GA), don't seem to be car
enthusiasts.  In fact, the majority of older 4K/5K/100 series are on the
verge of becoming beaters.  They are quite common, though few are
Quattros.  I speculate that this sub-population of owners bought their
(used) Audis because they were screaming good deals, a lot of car for
the money.  They hadn't a clue what maintenance expenses would
entail, and they have neither the budget nor the inclination to take care
of their cars properly.  If you try to share a proud ownership moment
with them, they'll think you've come from Mars.  Undoubtedly there are
plenty of cherished, beautifully maintained cars around whose owners
would understand.  But given the fleeting nature of many roadside
camaraderie opportunities, how's a person to know?  

We enthusiasts tend to forget the utter indifference with which many car
owners view their rides.  I have a buddy who is in his own way as much
a devotee as any of us, except that the object of his automotive lust
happens to be gargantuan American luxury cars, Lincolns in particular. 
I refer to him as Thyroid Motors.  A loquacious and outgoing fellow, TM
hardly ever misses the chance to pull up and chat with strangers who
drive cars he admires.  It's both amusing and instructive to watch their
reaction - and his.  He is totally oblivious to the fact that most of them
neither know nor care why he's so animated.  When I talk about cars
(and boy do I ever), I try not to get too carried away until I know where
my audience is coming from.

Pete
Pete_Kraus@emory.org
'85 4KSQ
'89 F250 4x4 diesel
'95 Z28