Our theories are derived from many factors. Some are based on a guy's style, language (verbal and body), and even the walk. Recently however, I have found a group of females who, like me, have a theory based on cars.

From comparison of dating histories, driving experiences, and the common bond of owning a sports car, this group of girls reached the conclusion that guys who drive sports cars, specifically Mustangs, are 95 percent more likely to be jerks. Based on dating history alone, this theory was a bit rash. After careful explanation and examination of other factors, it seemed practical. After experience, it is proving to be quite consistent.

I won't carry you into my friends' dating histories. Females everywhere can understand the negative connotations "the ex's car" will have. However, for your own safety, I must explain the "hostile driver" scenario that I, as many of my friends, have already experienced with a sports car.

Traveling back to Winston-Salem on I-40 this weekend, the unknown driver of a black 2000 Mustang was angered when I passed him. Okay, so maybe I was slightly speeding, and yes, I drive a sports car. Still, I did not show signs of hostility, and the following actions cannot be justified.

Mustang man speeds up behind me, flashes his bright lights on and off several times, and then rides bumper-to-bumper for several minutes. Being in the right lane, I was slightly agitated. The right lane is for "slower" traffic, right? I tap my breaks thinking maybe he'll pass me, and sure enough he does. However, he slows to turtle-racing speed, so I proceed to go around him again. Only, as I start to pass, he tries to run me off the road. He rides in the middle of the road and refuses to let me around, while continually trying to run my car into the guardrails.

Isn't this slightly rare, maybe even psychotic? Well, road rage has been taken to new levels. One of the theory originators has also experienced similar situations with a male Mustang driver. In fact, several females who drive sports cars have relayed information about road rage, guys and sports cars.

Apparently, if you are a female and you drive a sports car, males will inherently feel threatened. The feeling grows worse when the girl shows she is capable of driving her sports car. He then experiences the desire to prove he cannot be outdone by a girl.

Thus, I'm sure many other ladies have encountered "the engine revver." This would be the hotshot who pulls up beside your Eclipse at a stoplight in his Firebird and proceeds to rev his engine until the light changes. You, annoyed, roll your eyes and turn up your music as you proceed to your destination. He, so busy trying to get you to race, doesn't realize the light changed and ends up eating dust.

Can you relate? I'm not surprised if you can. Does it totally prove "the theory?" Well, let's just say I'm not sold yet, but if guys don't straighten up, it won't be long before I am.

Miranda Mills is a freshman.