Tension arises when a subordinate drives a more expensive car than his boss

[True Believer]

For most bosses, their sense of authority is tied to their status. When they see a subordinate with a superior status symbol like a more expensive car, it feels like a silent challenge to the boss' position or competence. When a subordinate drives a more luxurious car, it is due to his family wealth, a wealthy spouse or lucrative investments. A boss who took decades to climb the corporate ladder to afford their modest sedan will likely feel resentment towards the more junior colleague, viewing him as privileged rather than intelligent and hardworking.

 

[True Believer]

I have seen junior staff at every company I ever worked at, drive expensive cars to the office. Either they had substantial passive income, received an inheritance or had use of their parent's car. However, if their car is more expensive than their boss' vehicle, these subordinates were singled out unfairly by their head. It says a lot about the small-mindedness of most local bosses.