I think what your analogy is missing is that there aren’t FTC regulations prohibiting consumers from buying gum straight from the manufacturer. Not so great in my eyes.
I also graduated college last year, but my experience has been slightly different… two of my friends have Miatas (NA and NB) that they wrench on pretty regularly. That said, I don’t know many others my age who have an interest in cars that extends beyond racing sims or Fast and Furious
Edit: I...