1886 Mercedes-Benz Motorwagen

This is one of the very limited number of replicas of the world’s first 4-cycle combustion motorcar. It is the exact design, dimensions and materials used by Karl Benz in 1886. It’s rear-mounted horizontal engine is rated at 0.7 hsp, capable of 10 mph, originally fueled by naphtha, while the replicas are fueled with by Coleman Camp Stove Fuel. To start the engine, you spin the flywheel mounted below the crankshaft. A rack and pinion gear activates the drive pulley. Pushrods driven by the crank activates intake and exhaust valves. Bertha Benz took the famous 111-mile ride from Manheim to Pforzheim, driving her husband’s invention.

The unsinkable Mrs. Benz unplugged a clogged fuel line with her hat pin, pulled off one of her garters and wrapped it around an ignition wire to repair the insulation, found sources of water to fill the coolant tank and repaired the brakes at a cobbler’s shop.

This Motorwagen was built by Mercedes-Benz in 2002-03.

Spec: •0.74 hsp, 954cc, single cylinder • 1-Speed Transmission, no reverse • Water-cooled, 4 stroke engine • Rack & Pinion Steering • 23 MPG • Top Speed 10 mph • Wheelbase: 57 in • Tires: Solid Round Rubber • 0-90...only off a cliff