I think main problem is that half of adult men population is actually into those noisy/auto-moto sports. Even if they don't own one, they like and admire this silently and believe it's harmless nuisance. Add to it few friends that already do it ... and they're cool...

I live in EU city center. Stupid noisy speeders are bane of my existence. Both noise and safety (for biker and pedestrian) ... In some circles even raising this topic makes you whining leftist crybaby.