Mercedes-Benz is one of the oldest and most prestigious automobile manufacturers in the world. With a history spanning more than a century, Mercedes-Benz has created some of the most innovative and luxurious cars ever made. This article dives into the 10 oldest Mercedes-Benz vehicles that paved the way for modern automotive design and engineering. Each car listed is a true pioneer, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s unmatched dedication to quality, innovation, and legacy.
10 Oldest Mercedes-Benz Cars That Still Amaze Collectors
1. 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen: The First Automobile
Overview
The Benz Patent-Motorwagen is considered the first automobile in the world. It was designed and built by Karl Benz in 1885 and patented in 1886. This three-wheeled vehicle changed history and introduced the world to motorized transportation.
Key Features
Engine: Single-cylinder four-stroke engine
Power: 0.75 horsepower at 400 rpm
Speed: Up to 10 mph (16 km/h)
Structure: Lightweight steel tubing and wooden wheels
Why It’s One of the Oldest
This car marks the beginning of the automotive era. It was not only the first Mercedes-Benz but the very first internal combustion automobile. It stands as the foundation of Mercedes-Benz’s legacy.
2. 1901 Mercedes 35 HP: The Birth of the Modern Car
Overview
Commissioned by Emil Jellinek and built by Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG), the 1901 Mercedes 35 HP revolutionized automotive design. It was the first car to move away from carriage-style design and adopt a structure resembling modern cars.
Key Features
Engine: 5.9-liter four-cylinder
Power: 35 horsepower
Top Speed: Approximately 53 mph (85 km/h)
Chassis: Lightweight steel frame, low center of gravity
Why It’s One of the Oldest
The 35 HP is regarded as the first “modern car.” It set the foundation for vehicle architecture and performance that influenced all future cars.
3. 1902 Mercedes Simplex 40 HP: Engineering Advancement
Overview
The Mercedes Simplex 40 HP improved upon the 35 HP model with better handling and reliability. The “Simplex” name emphasized its simplicity and ease of use compared to earlier cars.
Key Features
Engine: 6.8-liter four-cylinder
Power: 40 horsepower
Top Speed: Around 50 mph (80 km/h)
Design: More refined, luxurious finish
Why It’s One of the Oldest
This vehicle was one of the first to be marketed as a luxury car. It offered both performance and comfort, which became a trademark of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
4. 1921 Mercedes-Knight 16/45 PS: A Refined Tourer
Overview
The Mercedes-Knight 16/45 PS was one of the first post-WWI cars developed by Daimler. It featured a unique sleeve-valve engine known for quiet operation and smooth performance.
Key Features
Engine: Four-cylinder sleeve-valve
Power: 45 horsepower
Body Styles: Limousine, Tourer
Highlight: Focus on noise reduction and ride comfort
Why It’s One of the Oldest
The 16/45 PS is notable for its innovation in engine design and post-war engineering excellence. It showed Mercedes-Benz’s ability to adapt and lead during a challenging era.
5. 1926 Mercedes-Benz Typ 8/38 PS: The First Under the Mercedes-Benz Name
Overview
This model was the first vehicle released after the merger of Benz & Cie and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft in 1926. The 8/38 PS was a mid-sized passenger car that offered advanced engineering for its time.
Key Features
Engine: 2.0-liter inline-four
Power: 38 horsepower
Transmission: Four-speed manual
Design: More aerodynamic than previous models
Why It’s One of the Oldest
It was the first official Mercedes-Benz car, bearing the combined name. It signaled a new era for the company and set a benchmark for all future models.
6. 1930 Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 (W08): The First Eight-Cylinder
Overview
The Nürburg 460 was the first Mercedes-Benz to be fitted with an inline eight-cylinder engine. It was designed for luxury, power, and long-distance touring.
Key Features
Engine: 4.6-liter inline-eight
Power: 80 horsepower
Interior: Spacious with fine materials
Performance: Capable of sustained high speeds
Why It’s One of the Oldest
This model introduced powerful engines to the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It represented luxury motoring at its finest in the 1930s.
7. 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K: Supercharged Elegance
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz 500K was a stylish and powerful grand touring car. It introduced a supercharged engine, offering exhilarating performance and elegant styling.
Key Features
Engine: 5.0-liter inline-eight, supercharged
Power: 160 horsepower with supercharger
Design: Long hood, swooping fenders
Luxury: Custom interiors, handcrafted details
Why It’s One of the Oldest
The 500K showcased Mercedes-Benz’s ability to blend performance with artistry. It was a favorite among the wealthy and elite during its time.
8. 1936 Mercedes-Benz 260 D: The First Diesel-Powered Passenger Car
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz 260 D was the world’s first diesel-powered passenger car. It revolutionized fuel efficiency and reliability in personal transportation.
Key Features
Engine: 2.6-liter four-cylinder diesel
Power: 45 horsepower
Fuel Economy: Highly efficient for its time
Durability: Known for rugged, long-lasting performance
Why It’s One of the Oldest
It set the global standard for diesel passenger vehicles. Mercedes-Benz proved diesel engines were not just for trucks and industrial use.
9. 1938 Mercedes-Benz W154 Grand Prix Car: Racing Innovation
Overview
Though not a road car, the W154 was a dominant race car that pushed engineering boundaries. It was part of the Silver Arrows program, aimed at dominating Grand Prix racing.
Key Features
Engine: 3.0-liter supercharged V12
Power: Up to 468 horsepower
Chassis: Lightweight tubular frame
Achievements: Multiple Grand Prix wins
Why It’s One of the Oldest
Its significance lies in performance and competition. The W154 helped Mercedes-Benz establish dominance in motorsport before World War II.
10. 1939 Mercedes-Benz 770 Grosser (W07): The State Limousine
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz 770, known as the Grosser Mercedes, was the ultimate luxury vehicle of its time. Used by heads of state and royalty, it offered unmatched size, comfort, and prestige.
Key Features
Engine: 7.7-liter inline-eight
Power: 150–230 horsepower
Features: Armored versions, advanced suspension
Interior: Opulent, with custom features and high-end finishes
Why It’s One of the Oldest
The 770 stood for power, luxury, and status. It embodied the peak of pre-war automotive engineering and craftsmanship.
Why These Models Matter Today
Each of these historic Mercedes-Benz cars played a critical role in shaping the brand’s identity. From being the first car ever made to introducing groundbreaking technologies, these models laid the foundation for modern vehicles. Their engineering excellence, attention to detail, and innovation continue to influence automotive design and performance.
Conclusion
The story of Mercedes-Benz is one of innovation, vision, and leadership. These 10 oldest models are not just cars—they are milestones in automotive history. They reflect the company’s commitment to quality, elegance, and pioneering spirit. Whether you are a car enthusiast or a student of industrial design, these vehicles offer deep insight into how far automotive technology has come and the legacy of a brand that continues to define luxury and performance.
