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DEFEND YOUR RIDE: Danielle At Wrigley Field

"This car was given to me by my grandfather."

The Ride
The Driver: Danielle
Car in Question: 2004 Ford Taurus
Spotted at: Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison Street, Chicago, IL 60613
Odometer: 73,770

THE DEFENSE

Q: What is your car's main use?

A: I mainly use my car to commute back and forth to my office. I also use it for church activities and other various errands. I used to live in Calumet City, which is a south suburb, and I would travel all the way to Skokie. It was about a 35-mile trip, just one way. It would take me an hour and half to two hours to get there, and about the same coming back. Now it only takes me 10 to 15 minutes. I am super happy about that!

Q: Do you have any rules for your car?

A: No smoking. I would prefer for people to not to smoke in my car. I won't forbid them, but they absolutely have to open the windows. People can eat or drink, but they just need to be careful.

Q: What do you listen to in your car?

A: Mainly Christian programs. When I'm not listening to Christian programs I will turn on various FM stations. I'm not really into contemporary music. I generally try to find stations that play older music, like the Temptations or Marvin Gaye.

Q: When did you get this car?

A: I got this car about a month ago. Before that I had a 2000 Toyota Camry. This car was given to me by my grandfather. He no longer drives, so he allowed me to take it.

Q: What are some of the differences between the Taurus and the Camry?

A: I like both of the cars. I think the Camry had a CD player, which I really loved. This one doesn't. I like the room in the Taurus. My Camry had a lot of room, but I think this car has more. I like that.

Q: What do you think your next car will be?

A: I like Toyotas, but I would probably consider a Chrysler Sebring. I had a chance to rent one, one time. The ride was great, and I would consider getting that one.

Q: How many more years do you think is left in the life of this car?

A: Years. My grandfather had it for a little while, but he didn't drive it a lot. I think there is at least 10 or 12 years left.

Q: If your car had a human emotion what would it be?

A: Relief. It was in the garage for quite awhile. Now that I have the car, it's out and running again. I would say the car is relieved to be out and back on the road.

Q: How would you compare city driving versus suburban driving?

A: I honestly prefer suburban driving because it's slower and you can find parking faster. City driving, you have to park on the street, or find a parking place, which can be a little tough, and time consuming.

Q: How would you describe your driving style?

A: I would say mainly I am a pretty laid back driver. I don't get mad if someone jumps in front of me, or wants to get ahead of me. That's no big deal. I just like to get places safely. If I have to get out there, like on the expressway, where I have to be more aggressive, I can be, but only when it's needed.

Q: Since you describe your driving style as laid back, how do you feel about driving in different elements?

A: I have had to drive in all types of weather. I have gone to work in extremely heavy rain, blizzard condition. I would be lying to say that I didn't get scared, but I had to remain calm, so I could get to and from work safely.

Q: What is your absolute dream car?

A: This car called a Bugatti. I think it goes from zero to 60 miles in a few seconds. I don't know honestly how often I would drive it, but it just seems cool to have. Like who wouldn't want to go from zero to 60 in a few seconds? Think of all the places you would get to quicker.

Photos and interview by Nicolette Chambers

Are you ready to Defend Your Ride? If so, email localautos@cbs.com with "Defend Your Ride Chicago" in the subject line for submission details.

View previous Defend Your Ride features as well as other great stories for people who love cars at CBSChicago.com/Autos

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