Why the World's First Car Was So Unique

The journey of human transportation has come a long way since the days of horse-drawn carriages and steam-powered oddities. One significant leap forward was the creation of the first gasoline-powered automobile — the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. Here are five surprising facts about this pioneering vehicle that forever changed how we move.

1. Only 25 Units Were Made

Imagine owning a car so rare that only 25 were ever made. That's the case with the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen. Inventor Carl Benz's vehicle was essentially a collector's item from its inception, which was produced between 1886 and 1893 when the Benz Velo replaced it.

2. It Had Less Than 1 Horsepower

The Benz Patent-Motorwagen wasn't exactly a powerhouse by today's standards. Its 945cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine produced a modest two-thirds of a horsepower at 400 rpm. Later tests showed it could reach up to 0.9 hp, which might seem laughable compared to the hundreds of horsepower present in today's cars. But back in 1886, this was revolutionary.

3. It Had Three Wheels, Not Four

Carl Benz wasn't a fan of the traditional four-wheel design available at the time. Instead, he opted for a three-wheel setup with power delivered to the two rear wheels and a single front wheel for steering. This unique design featured a simple drive system with chain drives and a single-speed transmission operated by a big leather strap. Benz even placed the flywheel horizontally to minimize steering difficulty due to inertia.

4. Starting the Engine Was a Workout

Starting the Benz Patent-Motorwagen was an adventure in itself. Forget about modern conveniences like push-button start or remote ignition. Back then, you had to manually spin a large flywheel to get the engine going. After activating the ignition from a switch under the seat, you'd vigorously turn the flywheel, regulate the air supply with a handwheel, and then engage the gear lever. It was a workout and a testament to the determination of early motorists.

5. It Was 100% Handmade

In a world of mass production and robotic assembly lines, the thought of a completely handmade car seems almost romantic. The Benz Patent-Motorwagen was just that — a handcrafted masterpiece. Everything from the engine to the hand-stitched leather seat and polished wooden floor was built by skilled craftsmen. In 1885, this level of bespoke craftsmanship came with a hefty price tag of $1,000, equivalent to about $30,000 today.

The Benz Patent-Motorwagen may seem quaint by modern standards, but its impact on the automotive world is undeniable. From its limited production to its unique design and hands-on operation, this first car set the wheels of progress in motion, paving the way for the vehicles we rely on today.

Reference: 8 Things We Just Learned About The First Car Ever Invented