I see your point there but the people that are doing this are nothing special, they are little scumbags who use fear more than anything, I have seen very few that are big tough blokes, if any! I speak to a lot of people who say 'I'm glad I wasn't in or I would have been the one getting locked up...' and it really annoys me that people have that attitude, you have a right to defend your property/home and self most importantly and unless you do something excessive/disproportionate/unjustified then you are more than within your rights, you may be asked to account for your actions so be honest about what you do/did!
I would make as hard as you can for them and stick up for yourself! I would not give up my car keys without doing everything I could first! I understand some people will say 'its just a car' but for me I'ts more than that, I work hard for what I have ( quiet Beddie ) and no way am I going to let some f*ck take it without a fight, no chance!
I appreciate some people don't feel the same but thats me