Women may not see men who drive flashy car as the marrying type. 06/21/2011
Recent studies by researchers at the University of San Antonio, the University of Minnesota and Rice University found that men who drive flashy sports cars may attract female attention, but this approach may be less effective for those who wish to find themselves in long-term relationships. A fancy car, such as a Porsche or a Jaguar, acts much like brightly colored feathers on male peacocks, and women will be more likely to notice a man in a luxury car than a man who is driving an economical vehicle.

"People may feel that owning flashy things makes them more attractive as a relationship partner, but in truth, many men might be sending women the wrong message," states Daniel Beal, a Rice University researcher.

The studies showed that women felt that men who drove fancier cars were less likely to be interested in long-term relationships.

Men who want to buy a new car can consider vehicles that are luxurious without being ostentatious. The new Audi A8 packs a punch with a top of the line 1,400-watt sound system, according to Top Speed. However, its design is modest compared to a Porsche Carrera, so it may be a better choice for men who want to settle down with a nice woman.