Most influential cars in history

Explore the vehicles that have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry and society. This selection highlights cars that revolutionized manufacturing, design, accessibility, or technology. Discover the models that laid the groundwork for modern transportation and changed how the world moves. From assembly line innovations to advancements in safety and performance, these automobiles defined eras and continue to inspire.

525100% verified
  1. 1

    Tesla Model S

    269 Global Votes
    • Forced other automakers to develop electric models

      (+4)

    The Tesla Model S demonstrated that electric cars could be desirable, high-performance, and practical for daily use. It drove the mass adoption of electric mobility and challenged the traditional automotive industry to accelerate its transition.

  2. 2

    Benz Patent-Motorwagen (1886)

    110 Global Votes
    • Regarded as the first practical automobile

      (+4)

    Considered the first automobile with an internal combustion engine, this vehicle laid the foundation for the entire automotive industry. Its invention marked the beginning of the automotive era as we know it.

  3. 3

    Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (1954)

    62 Global Votes
    • Direct descendant of successful race car

      (+4)

    This model was a breakthrough in automotive engineering, transferring racing technology to a street car. Its famous 'gullwing' doors and direct injection engine set new standards for performance and design.

  4. 4

    Ford Model T (1908)

    52 Global Votes
    • First car affordable for a majority of Americans

      (+4)

    This car revolutionized the automotive industry by making the automobile accessible to the middle class, popularizing its use globally. In addition, it introduced modern assembly line production, a method that transformed manufacturing in various industries.

  5. 5

    Ford Mustang (1964)

    13 Global Votes
    • Set new standards for performance and style

      (+4)

    The Ford Mustang created the 'pony car' segment and became a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing freedom and power. Its success stimulated the resurgence of 'muscle cars' and left an indelible mark on automotive culture.

  6. All the rankings you can imagine

    Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts

  7. 6

    Volkswagen Beetle (1938)

    11 Global Votes
    • Masterpiece of innovation and economics

      (+4)

    Designed as the 'people's car', the Beetle became one of the best-selling cars in history, surpassing the Ford T in units produced. Its charismatic design and accessibility transformed it into a global cultural symbol.

  8. 7

    Audi Quattro (1980)

    5 Global Votes
    • Revolutionized rally racing with four-wheel drive

      (+4)

    Although it was not the first all-wheel-drive car, the Audi Quattro popularized this technology in high-performance vehicles. It associated it with safety and performance, making it a common feature in many modern vehicles.

  9. 8

    Toyota Prius (1997)

    1 Global Votes
    • World's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle

      (+4)

    The Toyota Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid, initiating the trend of hybrid vehicles and demonstrating the viability of alternative powertrains. It was a key precursor in the transition towards electric mobility.

  10. 9

    Citroën DS (1955)

    1 Global Votes
    • Cemented Citroën as an automotive innovator

      (+4)

    The Citroën DS stood out for its futuristic design and innovative hydropneumatic suspension, becoming a benchmark for automotive engineering and style. Its technological advancements made it one of the most influential French cars.

  11. 10

    Jeep Willys MB (1941)

    1 Global Votes
    • Started a revolution in small military vehicles

      (+4)

    Designed for World War II, the Jeep Willys MB laid the foundations for modern off-road vehicles and current SUVs. It became a symbol of adventure and resilience, influencing the design of utility vehicles.

  12. 11

    Mini Cooper (1959)

    0 Global Votes
    • Ingeniously turned a crisis into an opportunity

      (+4)

    This car redefined the concept of a compact and urban vehicle, demonstrating that a small size did not compromise space efficiency. Its design directly influenced the conception of many modern vehicles.

  13. 12

    Porsche 911 (1964)

    0 Global Votes
    • Genesis of an iconic sports car family

      (+4)

    The Porsche 911 is an absolute benchmark in the world of sports cars, maintaining its timeless essence and design over decades. Its balance of power, agility, and precision makes it an icon of automotive performance and design.

  14. 13

    Toyota Corolla (1966)

    0 Global Votes
    • Became Toyota's most successful model

      (+4)

    The Toyota Corolla has set new standards for quality, reliability, and efficiency, becoming the best-selling automobile in history. Its success reflects the impact of Japanese engineering on global mobility.

  15. 14

    SEAT 600 (1957)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic Spanish car

      (+4)

    The SEAT 600 was the car that popularized automobiles in Spain, motorizing Spanish society and having an immense social and cultural impact. It became a symbol of the country's economic recovery and modernization.

  16. 15

    Fiat 500 (1957)

    0 Global Votes
    • Affordable city car

      (+4)

    The Fiat 500 became an icon of urban mobility and Italian design, being one of the best-selling cars in Italy. Its charismatic design and functionality have kept it relevant, evolving into modern electric versions.

  17. 16

    Oldsmobile Curved Dash (1901)

    0 Global Votes
    • Dominated auto industry selling 40% of cars

      (+4)

    Considered the first vehicle produced on an assembly line, this model is recognized for having implemented the assembly line for the first time in automobile production. It was a fundamental precursor to modern manufacturing methods.

  18. 17

    Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126) (1979)

    0 Global Votes
    • Benchmark for luxury and technology

      (+4)

    This generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was a pioneer in introducing safety features such as standard airbags in 1981. It set new standards for automotive safety and luxury in high-end vehicles.