1886 Benz Motorwagen Replica Motorwagen

Carl Benz's three-wheeler Motorwagen was the first successful use of the internal combustion-engined motor car. It featured a rear-mounted horizontal engine with vertical crankshaft, belt primary drive and final transmission to the rear wheels by side chains. The entire package was placed on a tubular chassis that was suspended in place by three large wheels. The engine displaced 984cc and provided .9 horsepower. Top speed was achieved at 8 mph. It was not a romantic ride; it was loud, smelly, and the occupants felt every bump and vibration. It was primitive, but at the same time it was 'state of the art.'

'Papa' Benz donated the original car to the Deutches Museum in Munich in 1906. Since that time, a series of working replicas have been manufactured with considerable attention to detail and accuracy.

This example was built in Yorkshire, England, during the 1980s. It was later fitted with period coach lamps and the fitting of a step from an early horse-drawn carriage.

It has dark green framing and ironwork, a varnished wood platform and wooden toolbox, and many brass fittings. It was offered for sale at the 2007 Bonhams Important Sale of Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia at the Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club. It was sold for $46,000 plus premium and tax.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008