The automotive industry has seen numerous brands rise and fall over the decades. Every brand has a backstory that reflects its consumer preferences. This article discusses the first cars built by 15 no longer operational car makers, highlighting their unique contributions to automotive history!

American Motors Corporation (AMC)

American Motors Corporation was known for its innovative designs and models, such as the Rambler and AMX. Their first car, the 1958 Rambler, was a compact vehicle that appealed to budget-conscious consumers and was essentially the cheapest car built on American soil.

Plymouth

Initially set for release in 1929, the Plymouth Q rolled off the assembly line in 1928 to much hype and hullabaloo from the advertising team. The progressive machine was pretty swanky for its era and even featured full-pressure lubrication with four-wheel expanding drum hydraulic brakes.

Mercury

Mercury might have been phased out by Ford in 2011, but the company’s legacy is still strong. You can catch a glimpse of the company’s debut, the Mercury 8 car, in the Ford Museum and witness one of the most aerodynamic vehicles ever made.

The Delorean Motor Company (DMC)

Sci-Fi buffs can recognize this car at the drop of a hat due to its appearance in the Back to the Future series. Due to its massive impact on pop culture, it’s hard to believe that the DMC-12 is no longer in production. Unfortunately, the vehicle’s parent company went into receivership and closed its doors.

Pontiac

Before Pontiac became synonymous with the Firebird, they had to start somewhere. The company released the Oakland Four in 1909, succeeded by the Oakland Six less than a decade later. We must admit this naming scheme was a bit weird, but at least they figured it out later.

Studebaker

Believe it or not, Studebaker’s first car was electric! This was back in 1902, and the interesting machine was aptly named the Studebaker Electric. The company went in this direction because they saw that batteries were easily rechargeable and worked perfectly in urban settings.

Rover

Not to be confused with the Range Rover, we have the Rover Company with the Rover 8. The British automaker was keen on luxury and innovation, and it made some noise in the industry. Sooner or later, many British automakers borrowed a leaf from its mantra.

Imperial

Chrysler’s luxury brand, Imperial, launched the 1926 Imperial Model 80 as its first offering. This car was designed to compete with high-end luxury vehicles, showcasing Chrysler’s commitment to quality and innovation. The Imperial brand became known for its elegance and advanced engineering.

Packard

The American luxury car manufacturer introduced the 1899 Packard Model A, which set the standard for such vehicles. Revered for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, Packard cars were favored by the elite, establishing a legacy of luxury that lasted for decades.

Nash Motors

The 1917 Nash Model 671 featured advanced engineering for its time, including a closed body and electric lights. Nash played a significant role in shaping the American automotive space, particularly during the post-war era. It’s a shame we don’t get any more vehicles from them.

Tucker

This innovative company started with a prototype named the Torpedo, but Model 48, which featured advanced safety and a unique design, was the first to roll off the assembly line. Despite its limited production, the Tucker 48 remains a symbol of automotive ingenuity and ambition.

Panhard

The Systeme Panhard was released to much fanfare, mainly because it changed the placement of the engine from the back to the front. This was quite revolutionary at the time, and it wasn’t long before some other manufacturers borrowed a leaf from the company.

Hupmobile

Founded in 1909, Hupmobile launched its first car, the 1911 Hupmobile Model 80. This vehicle was notable for its quality and affordability, capturing the attention of American consumers. For around $750, you’d comfortably drive one of these bad boys off the lot.

Argyll

The Argyll Voiturette was the first vehicle to roll off this company’s assembly line in 1900. The car got some inspiration from Renault. However, it still managed to get some love. Unfortunately, the company couldn’t enjoy much success as it suffered some financial woes down the line, leading to its closure.

Morris Garages (MG)

The British brand MG (Morris Garages) debuted the 1924 MG 14/28 Supercharged, symbolizing sporty British motoring. Revered for their performance and style, MG cars captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide, leaving behind a lasting impression in automotive history.