1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen Replica

This fascinating vehicle is an exacting replica of the first self-propelled, four-stroke, internal-combustion-engine-powered motor vehicle. The original, designed and built by Karl Benz, was granted patent no. 37435 in Mannheim, Germany, on November 2, 1886, and exhibits numerous engine-design principles still in widespread use. Taking its place alongside the Duryea in America as well as Gottlieb Daimler’s four-wheeled carriage, the Motorwagen represents the dawn of motoring as we know it today. Karl Benz’s wife, Bertha, famously drove a Motorwagen from Mannheim to Pforzheim and back, acting as driver, navigator, and mechanic on what has come to be known as the first road trip. News of her 100-plus-mile accomplishment spread quickly and gained her husband’s invention valuable and well-timed publicity. British firm John Bentley & Sons Engineering created a small run of extremely accurate, functional 1:1 scale replicas beginning in 1986. The Motorwagen presented here is a fresh, unused replica that was recently uncrated and its final assembly completed. The historical significance of the Motorwagen is a matter of undisputed fact. These replicas make for great conversation during any collection tour, and would delight spectators with its operation and performance. *Please note that this vehicle is sold on a Bill of Sale. car