There are a few differences between Europe and America.

First, European countries have a far better public transportation system than what is available here.

Second, distances between places in Europe are, on average, less than what exists in America. For example, the entire country of Portugal is smaller than the U.S. state of Georgia. IIRC, more things in European cities are within walking distance of peoples' homes than could be dreamed of at this point in time in America. Add that to the better public transit system, and you see a lowered need for personal transportation as a rule in any event.

Third, I would imagine that the fuel prices in Europe being jacked up didn't happen instantly. I'm sure that it was at least somewhat gradual.

Also, I have to ask this about any "gas guzzler" tax. How can it be made to affect people who buy SUV's as status symbols without adversely affecting people who have a demonstrable need for a vehicle that size? I'm mainly thinking about the pickup truck crowd. Using myself as an example, with what I need to do (for Scouts and whatnot), having anything smaller than a 3/4 ton truck would actually be dangerous. That said, I use my truck when I need to and rarely otherwise.

Just some things to chew on and BTW, "poor" describes me quite well...