954 cc horizontal single-cylinder engine, belt primary drive and chain final drive, full-elliptic leaf spring rear suspension, and mechanical transmission brake. Wheelbase: 58"

• Faithful replica of first Benz model

• The essence of pioneer motoring

It is generally recognized that Carl Benz is the father of the internal combustion motor car. Certainly he was the first to market a successful automobile, although its sales success would come initially in France.

By the close of 1885, Benz had produced a single-cylinder, four-stroke gasoline engine and fitted it to a three-wheel carriage designed specifically for his engine. This first Benz had two driven rear wheels powered by a horizontally-mounted single-cylinder engine that developed ¾ horsepower, and a speed of eight miles per hour was recorded on one of the very first test runs. Although somewhat primitive in design, the Benz Motor-Wagen incorporated many innovative features, like electric ignition, a mechanically-operated inlet valve and a differential gear. Benz patented his car on January 30, 1886, and that spring, it was seen on the streets of Mannheim. Throughout 1886 and 1887, Benz further developed his design, making his first sale in 1887.

This Benz Patent Motor-Wagen is a faithful replica of Carl Benz’s first vehicle. Built in Asia, it is patterned after the series sanctioned by Daimler-Benz and built by John Bentley in the United Kingdom between 1986 and 1997. At that time, Bentley and his team were granted access to the original Benz in preparation for the project. We are informed it runs very well and is ideal for demonstration runs or static display. With interest heightened by the recent 125th anniversary of Carl Benz’s patent, it is the essential icon for display in a Mercedes-Benz dealership or exhibit in an automobile museum.

Please note this vehicle is offered on a Bill of Sale only.