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European Cars come in a variety of flavors, but no country on the old continent has consistently delivered such a wide variety of cars with the precision and longevity like the German automakers. German engineer Karl Benz created the automobile, leading to Mercedes-Benz, one of the oldest automakers around. With heritage like that, it comes as no surprise that German automakers take pride in the fact that there is quite nothing like German Engineering.
Precision engineering can be seen in every aspect, from the robust and finely-tuned engines to the meticulously designed suspension systems. German cars are known for their precise handling, responsive steering, and exceptional build quality. Attention to detail is evident in the fit and finish of the interiors, with well-crafted materials and intuitive controls. These German Classic Cars embodied all of these qualities, as they excelled in their operation.
10 Mercedes-Benz 300SL
Introduced in 1954,with its gullwing doors, sleek lines and powerful performance, the 300SL Gullwing was known for its advanced engineering, featuring industry firsts like a fuel-injected engine and a tubular space-frame chassis. Powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, the Gullwing delivered exceptional power and speed. Its top speed reached around 160 mph (257 km/h), making it the fastest production car of its time.
Its timeless design and groundbreaking features make it an iconic symbol of automotive excellence.
Whether showcased at classic car shows like Techno-Classica Essen in Germany, one of the largest classic car shows in the world or seen cruising the open road, the 300SL Gullwing remains a symbol of a golden era of automobile engineering and German precision.
9 Porsche 911
The 911 is an automotive legend that needs no introduction. Whether we talk about the performance of their latest track-monster 911 GT3RS or the eye-watering sale prices for classic 911s, this is the model that truly put the German automaker on the map, and stayed strong for over five decades. Introduced in 1963, this iconic sports car has become synonymous with performance, precision, and timeless design. With its rear-engine layout and distinctive silhouette, the Porsche 911 is instantly recognizable through the numerous iterations and generations.
Its enduring appeal lies in its driving dynamics and engineering excellence. Its powerful engines, responsive handling, and exceptional balance deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The 911 has continued to push boundaries, offering increased power, improved aerodynamics, and innovative features. Whether it’s the classic air-cooled models or the modern water-cooled versions, the Porsche 911 continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
8 BMW 2002
Introduced in 1968, the 2002, with its sleek design, nimble handling, and responsive engine, helped establish BMW’s envious reputation of being the manufacturer behind the “Ultimate Driving Machine”. The 2002 featured iconic styling elements, such as its round headlights and distinctive Hofmeister kink, which have become hallmarks of BMW’s design language.
With its compact size and sporty characteristics, the BMW 2002 offered a thrilling driving experience. Its responsive engine, rear-wheel drive, and well-tuned suspension delivered a perfect balance of power and agility. In 1973, BMW put a 2.0-liter turbo engine in their series production 2002, making 170hp in a car that weighed a mere 2,381 pounds, creating the legendary 2002 Turbo. This just isn’t any old German car, and the enthusiast community knows it, with pristine examples bringing in north of $150,000 all day long.
7 Volkswagen Beetle
Introduced in 1938 and mass-produced after World War II, the Beetle became a symbol of practicality, reliability, and affordability. The Beetle revolutionized car manufacturing with its rear-mounted engine, streamlined shape, and clever engineering, a formula that European cars of the era strived to replicate. Its simplicity and durability made it accessible to the masses, catering to post-war economies and providing reliable transportation, while proudly carrying its own little quirks.
It delivered a formula that was attractive and appealed fabulously with the masses. By 2003, when the last Type 1 Beetle rolled off the production, Volkswagen had sold an astounding 21.5 million Beetles, a number that only one other carmaker has managed to match. The Volkswagen Beetle donned many hats in its long lifetime — People’s Car, Symbol of Freedom, Movie Star, Cult Classic and so many more, but what it truly symbolized throughout its lifetime was the enduring precision and ingenuity of the German car.
6 Mercedes-Benz W123 Series
The Mercedes-Benz W123 series of vehicles is a legendary line of cars from the German manufacturer that has gained a near cult status internationally for their ability to seemingly run forever, regardless of the environment and conditions thrown at it. Produced from 1976 to 1985, the W123 was known for its impeccable build quality, durability, and exceptional comfort.
The W123 featured a range of diesel and gasoline variants across sedan, wagon and coupe body types, catering to a wide range of preferences. An understated yet sophisticated design, with its classic Mercedes-Benz styling cues, and a luxurious, spacious interior contributed to the car’s popularity. It had the distinction of being one of the first Mercedes cars to be formally sold in many African and Asian countries, solidifying Mercedes as the brand synonymous with success. Today, the W123 is cherished by enthusiasts and serves as an icon of impeccable German engineering.
5 Audi Quattro
The Audi Quattro burst on to the World Rallying scene and completely changed the landscape of the sport. Introduced in 1980, the Quattro’s defining feature was its Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which provided unparalleled traction and stability, particularly on challenging surfaces. This technology gave the Quattro a significant advantage in motorsport, dominating the World Rally Championship with 23 rally victories over 6 years at the hands of legendary rally drivers Walter Rohrl, Hannu Mikkola and others.
Apart from recognition as the greatest rally car of all time, the Audi Quattro was loved for its distinctive design and powerful five-cylinder turbocharged engines that made well above 300hp in full rally spec. The Quattro represented a perfect blend of performance, practicality, and cutting-edge technology. Even today, the Audi Quattro remains a symbol of Audi’s commitment to engineering excellence and driving pleasure.
4 BMW E30 Series
The BMW E30 is a compact sedan from the Bavarian manufacturer, that helped define the brand’s popularity among enthusiasts and the average car shopper alike. Produced from 1982 to 1994, the E30 became synonymous with BMW’s reputation for sporty performance, precision engineering, and timeless design. With its sleek and aerodynamic body, the E30 exuded a sense of understated elegance.
It offered a range of engines, from efficient four-cylinders to the legendary six-cylinder powerhouses found in the iconic M3 variants. Its interior boasted a driver-focused cockpit, with comfortable seating and intuitive controls. The E30’s durability and reliability have stood the test of time, with many examples still cherished and maintained by enthusiasts worldwide. A cult like following has resulted in these wonderful vehicles commanding high prices in recent times.
3 Mercedes-Benz W124 Series
Following on from the roaring success of the W123 series of cars, Mercedes-Benz needed the successor to be better in every way, an endeavor that birthed the timeless W124 Series. Produced from 1984 to 1997, the W124 represented a new era of innovation and refinement for the brand. Featuring a wide range of diesel and gasoline engines, across body types, the W124 delivered a balance of performance and efficiency. The powerful 500E variant was built in collaboration with Porsche and helped the 911 manufacturer get through tough times.
Mercedes-Benz famously over-engineered the car, introducing safety technology features like driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. A sophisticated, modern design and a spacious, comfortable interior, adorned with high-quality materials and ergonomic controls, provided a refined driving experience. Its combination of comfort, safety, and reliability has solidified its status as a classic car icon, and many examples continue to waft along, seemingly for the rest of time.
2 BMW M1
The BMW M1 is a legendary sports car that holds a special place in BMW’s history. Produced from 1978 to 1981, the M1 was BMW’s first mid-engined supercar, designed to showcase the brand’s motorsport capabilities. It helped lay the foundation for the brand’s M performance division. It featured a head-turning striking design, with its low-slung body, aggressive lines, and distinctive wedge shape.
Underneath its stunning exterior, the M1 featured a powerful 3.5-liter inline-six engine developed in collaboration with Lamborghini and making 273hp. It showcased advanced engineering with a lightweight chassis, offering exceptional handling and performance. With only 453 units ever produced, the BMW M1 is a rare and coveted gem among collectors. This rare sports car represents the epitome of BMW’s performance-oriented engineering.
1 Mercedes-Benz 600
The Mercedes-Benz 600, also known as the “Grosser Mercedes” or the “Grand Mercedes,” is a prestigious luxury car that redefined automotive opulence. Produced from 1963 to 1981, the 600 was a flagship model known for its unrivaled luxury, advanced features like hydraulic systems for various functions including the suspension. The 600 is the grandfather to the S-Class, Mercedes’ self-proclaimed Best Car in the World.
The Mercedes-Benz 600 was favored by heads of state, celebrities, dignitaries around the world and famously driven my Jeremy Clarkson in a Top Gear special. Its spacious and lavishly appointed interior boasted features like adjustable air suspension, hydraulically powered windows and seats, and even a retractable television. This grand vehicle was powered by a 6.3-liter V8 making a smooth and effortless 247hp. This handcrafted automobile with unparalleled attention to detail evident in every aspect of its design and construction. Even today, the Mercedes-Benz 600 is revered as a symbol of automotive prestige, elegance, and exclusivity.
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