I worked for a couple of years with a guy who is one of the biggest Porsche collectors in the world. Primarily twin cams. His collection is beyond amazing. Whenever he sells one, which is very rarely, it's setting a new record. Guy has friends like Bill Gates, Jerry Seinfeld and their mechanics on speed dial. Just has loved the cars since he was a kid...long before he could afford one. It's his passion and it's made him a great deal of money.
The. Most. Down. To. Earth. Guy. You would make a serious mistake by pre-judging him based on this interest. His daily drivers are a lot less exotic. Last I knew his wife was driving an older X3, with a stick. He's always got something that he picked up word of mouth. Last I knew he had an early generation Audi S8 with a zillion miles on the clock. Also has a truck in the rotation.
I've had a lot of conversation on a few car forums, generally about maintenance issues, and minor upgrades. I've found, like most forums, if you have a specific question, or some specific knowledge, people will help and/or appreciate your insight. And yep it is also a breeding ground for the boldly clueless.
Logged a lot of time in the Audi forum world. And a few other brands. Never had any issues. Learned a ton, passed on a bit less. Nice people. The tone and delivery matters.
If you get out over your tips, people tend to get "impatient." My biggest issue in the last few years of Epic, BTW. People who don't know, and won't let go. To many arguments. Let's avoid them here, PLEASE.
This will almost certainly be my last ski school post. Will be sticking to what I know!