in Malaysia, cars are barely affordable but an absolute necessity because of lack of last mile in our public transport system. the average monthly individual income in 2023 is MYR4300 (about 915 USD per month or 10980 USD per annum) while the most basic new car (model/brand : Saga Proton) cost MYR43000 (about 9150 USD). That means Malaysia need to fork more than 2/3 of their annual salary to buy a car. unfortunately, a lot of Malaysian regard car as a status symbol. Many consider buying a honda a necessity and willing to pay about 25% or more of their monthly salary for car installment.
how about your country?