Spoiler: It’s Not.
Every car guy has faced the look.
You know the one.
The “What the hell is this rusty thing in the driveway?” stare your partner gives you as you roll in with your latest “deal of a lifetime.”
Welcome to the hardest mod you’ll ever attempt:
Convincing your partner that your project car is an investment.
(AKA, the ultimate test of love, patience, and delusion.)
Step 1: Use Big Words They Won’t Google
“This isn’t just a car. It’s a JDM classic with appreciating value in the enthusiast market.”
They don’t need to know that “JDM” stands for “Justify Dumb Money.”
Throw in “low production numbers,” “collector’s value,” and “potential track weapon” for extra flair.
Step 2: Reference Fake Appreciation Numbers
“Babe, these sold for $3,000 in 2015. Now they’re going for $3,800! That’s almost 30% up.”
Do not mention the $6,500 you’ve already put into it. That’s irrelevant accounting.
Step 3: Make It a “Us” Thing
“Imagine the road trips we’ll take once it’s done.”
This is bold, especially if the car hasn’t run since the Harper government, but hey — it’s about the dream.
Bonus: Mention how rare it is to find something you can “build together.”
(They’ll think you’re talking about the relationship. You’re talking about bleeding brake lines.)
Step 4: Compare It to Worse Hobbies
“At least I’m not into golf. Those guys spend thousands just to wear plaid and walk.”
Make sure to frame your questionable turbo eBay kit as the frugal alternative.
Step 5: Lie (Just a Little)
“It just needs a tune and a few bolts.”
Translation: The engine is out, the ECU is fried, and you may need to remortgage the garage.
The Harsh Truth
Here’s the reality: your project car is not an investment.
It’s a steel money sponge.
It leaks fluids, demands sacrifices, and breaks your spirit one bolt at a time.
But it also makes you weirdly happy.
So if your partner sticks around through the smoke, stress, and sketchy test drives — congrats. That’s a keeper.
Just don’t let them see the receipts.
Chenaraa.com — For the dreamers, the builders, and the brave souls explaining to their partner why a non-running 1994 hatchback was “financially responsible.”
