ASD is the operating system through which we translate the input and context of the world, it doesn't define personality traits or abilities. Sensory input will have an effect on one's preferences.
e.g. light and sound sensitivity, motion, textures, a need for routine, etc.
The reason for the preferences, basic equilibrium within the nervous system.
Things like hobbies, interests, skill sets, intelligence, empathy, moral character, etc. (Literally the thing that make us human are not defined by ASD. It is part nature, part environmental factors (nurture)).
To try and pry one out of the other to say, 'Hey, this is me, not autism,' really doesn't seem logical. The system will have an impact on the translation and presentation and reaction of the input.
ASD is an inherent part of one's biology, but how often does one sit on a swing, enjoying the subtle rush and go, 'I only like to swing because I'm autistic!'
Autism is not a factor by which one should be defining one's self. It is a reason why we do certain things, react certain ways, for specific reasons (e.g. sensory seeking).
You can be neurotypical and love cars. Why does autism need to be used as a validation for loving cars or books?
There is a sad fault in the logic by using the neurotype as a divisive tool, rather than an accepted interface.
This is a key factor in why so many autistics struggle with the neurotype and not wanting to be defined by it. Acceptance of the inherent system is a critical step to making peace with one's self. Trying to actively pry the OS out to define the 'self' is like pulling the wiring out of a car and wondering why it won't start.
Such an analytical (literal) approach could often be interpreted as an 'autistic' trait by many mental health professionals, rather than the basic fundamental reason for said response.
The question is completely illogical given the neurological, biological, and psychological complexity of autistics. You cannot bleed it out into black and white, no matter how much one desires to.
Pose the question in neurotypical context and it is easy to see how vapid the question is.