German cars are generally known for their engineering excellence, combining performance, innovation, and luxury. The first ones were built by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler in the 19th century. Since then, many new models have flooded the industry, each with unique features. This is a brief history of 15 German cars.

Volkswagen Beetle (1939 – 2003

This Volkswagen Beetle is arguably the most iconic car in automotive history. Commissioned in 1933, Ferdinand Porsche designed it to be affordable and reliable. However, WW II shifted Volkswagen’s focus to military production, and after the war, the Beetle began mass production for civilian use.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (1954 – 57)

Mercedes-Benz was born from the merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG). In the 1950s, Mercedes-Benz focused on rebuilding its reputation by introducing groundbreaking models that redefined luxury automobiles. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, introduced in 1954, is perhaps the most iconic of these models.

Porsche 911 (1963 – 1989)

As a car manufacturer, Porsche’s history began in the early 20th century. However, it was in the 1960s that the company truly made its mark on the automotive world with the introduction of the Porsche 911. It was developed as a successor to the Porsche 356.

BMW 3 Series (1975 – Present)

The 1970s was a significant turning point for BMW, as the company began carving a niche for itself as a producer of sporty vehicles. This era saw the introduction of the BMW 3 Series, which became one of the best-selling cars in the automotive industry.

Audi Quattro (1980 – 1991)

In the early 1980s, Audi revolutionized the automotive industry by introducing its Quattro all-wheel-drive system. First showcased on the Audi Quattro, this technology offered exceptional traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The Quattro system gave Audi a significant competitive advantage, especially in motorsport

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1972-Present)

Since its official designation in 1972, the S-Class has introduced numerous safety, comfort, and performance features that later became standard across the industry. Each generation has exceeded the boundaries of innovation in auto development, from pioneering anti-lock brakes and airbags to advanced driver-assistance systems.

Volkswagen Golf GTI (1976-Present)

Launched in 1976, the Volkswagen Golf GTI popularised the hot hatch segment. By combining the practicality of the compact Golf with a spirited, sporty character, the GTI became an instant hit. Thanks to its agile handling and peppy engine, it offers an exhilarating driving experience.

BMW M3 (1986-Present)

With its 1986 introduction as a special homologation for Group A touring cars, the BMW M3 quickly established itself in the automotive world. After years of development, the original E30 M3 became a performance powerhouse characterized by razor-sharp handling, a high-revving four-cylinder engine, and a motorsport pedigree.

Porsche 959 (1986-1988)

This limited-production vehicle was one of the most technologically advanced cars of the 1980s. Initially developed for Group B rallying, the 959 featured a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, all-wheel drive, and a host of cutting-edge technologies, including an advanced suspension system and aerodynamic enhancements.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class (1979-Present)

Also known as “G-Wagen,” the G-Class was first designed as a military vehicle but became a luxury off-roader after its civilian launch in 1979. With a boxy design, luxurious interiors, powerful engines, and exceptional off-road capabilities, the G-Class has remained primarily unchanged in appearance.

Volkswagen Golf (1974-Present)

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the most successful compact cars in automotive history. It debuted in 1974 as a successor to the iconic Beetle and was designed to be practical, reliable, and affordable. Its front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout set a new standard in the industry.

Audi R8 (2006-Present)

In 2006, Audi launched the R8 into the supercar segment. Featuring its mid-engine layout, Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and stunning design, the R8 showcased Audi’s engineering excellence and motorsport heritage. The automobile was powered by a V8 or V10 engine

BMW 507 (1956-1959)

To compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300SL, BMW introduced the 507 in 1956. Featuring an elegant design by Albrecht von Goertz, the 507 was one of the most beautiful cars of its time. However, because of its high production costs, only 252 units were made.

Porsche 928 (1977-1995)

Porsche’s 928 differed from the brand’s traditional sports car design. Manufactured to replace the 911, the 928 was a luxurious grand tourer with a front-mounted V8 engine, a first for Porsche. Its performance and advanced technology earned it the 1978 European Car of the Year award.

Mercedes-Benz 600 (1963-1981)

When introduced in 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 600, also called the “Grosser,” symbolized luxury and engineering excellence. Celebrities and heads of state favored this ultra-luxurious limousine for its advanced hydraulic systems and powerful V8 engine. The 600 was available in short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase models.