Singaporeans are a pretty practical bunch. It is hardly a surprise that certain car marques associated with reliability, fuel economy and resale value dominate our best seller list. We go for the safe bet; the choice that makes sense to us numerically. And so, I am often met with a puzzled look when I explain that the most important attribute for me when car shopping is power (both bhp and torque) or when I tell people that my hobby is modifying my ride to go that little bit faster. Inevitably, the following refrain will be heard. "Fast car in Singapore? For what? Our roads are so congested and traffic lights are everywhere. You won't be able to travel much faster than my [insert choice of unclemobile]."

To them and those of you practical minded folk reading this (yes, even in a car enthusiast's forum, they exist), my answer is a firm Yes.

I personally find it strange that society can look upon practicality with such deference and respect. To me, being conventional and practical reeks of one thing - being a boring person. But I don't expect that practical folk can ever understand this and I just want them to stop being so judgmental and so insistent that their way is the only way. So here goes. This is my tongue-in-cheek list of "practical" reasons why sports cars or fast cars have a point in Singapore.

1) Some sports cars can become future classic cars. Just like art pieces, there is a chance that some day down the road, that sports car may actually appreciate in value or at the very least, retain value much better than the typical bread and butter car would. Well, I will admit that it is a bit of a gamble and not all sports cars will reach cult classic status but there is the possibility right? And isn't this just like investing in art or fine wines?

2) Powerful cars are safer. Yes, you heard me right. Powerful cars allow you to overtake more easily and more safely. Fast cars usually also come with better and grippier tyres, better safety features and better brakes. If driven sedately, I would say that such cars would probably be a lot safer than the typical bread and butter car. Now, isn't being safe a very important consideration, even for you practical folk?

3) Sports cars incentivize you to keep you healthy. You never thought this is possible but your car can have an effect on your health. Driving a sports car with a rock hard suspension is painful for those who do not keep themselves limber and fit. The hugging bucket seats mean that you must keep your weight and girth in check. And if you do not stretch regularly, I doubt you will be able to climb in and out of a low slung sports coupe. Now we are often lazy when it comes to keeping fit, so what better incentive can there be than the fact your ridiculously expensive sports car will go to waste if you didn't?

With all these practical benefits, be sure to make your next car a fast or sporty one!

Note: this is meant to be a light-hearted and humorous article, not genuine advice/opinion!