German car brands: detailed list with photos

German cars

German cars are considered (and have always been considered) a generally recognized standard of high level, quality and reliability, so no one is surprised by the fact that automobile brands from Germany occupy one of the leading positions in the world market. Every year, automakers from this country produce over 10 million “iron horses” at their factories around the world, which are distributed on all continents of the planet without exception.

Modern German cars set an example for other manufacturers, primarily due to carefully selected materials and a high level of workmanship. In addition, the Germans pay special attention to quality control in production, as well as the quality of the final product, not only at enterprises within the country, but also abroad.

“Iron horses” from Germany can be divided into several sectors, and the first of them is cars of the so-called “folk” brands, which have a relatively affordable price tag (although there are also very expensive options among them).

But the Germans have a particularly strongly developed segment of premium cars, which, without exaggeration, are “ahead of the rest.” They are “role models” for all other automakers and embody a huge number of high-tech achievements of local specialists.

The history of the German automobile industry dates back to 1861, when designer Nikolaus August Otto created the world's first internal combustion engine - it was a two-stroke naturally-aspirated unit with a vertically positioned cylinder and open-flame ignition. But the inventor did not stop there, introducing a more advanced four-stroke unit in 1876.

The world's first car was released in 1885, and its “parent” was the German engineer Karl Benz, who attached a single-cylinder engine to a three-wheeled carriage, producing only one horsepower. Such characteristics allowed it to accelerate to 16 km/h, however, due to the design features, this vehicle constantly stalled.

Subsequently, Benz developed and improved his idea, and already in 1900 he became the owner of the world's first car production plant. In parallel with him, another German wizard Gottlieb Daimler was also engaged in the construction of a self-propelled “cart” - it was he who was the first to equip a four-wheeled car with an engine with four “pots”.

In 1926, the companies created by Benz and Daimler merged, which marked the “birth” of the Mercedes brand. The first to use this name was a small car with a two-seater cabin, a front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive, which were driven through a special gearbox.

But not only Benz and Daimler developed the automotive industry; along with them, the engineer and inventor August Horch was involved in this business, who in 1909 formed the Horch company, but subsequently left it in order to create a new brand - Audi. The first car under this name appeared already in 1910.

In 1917, on the outskirts of Munich, another company was “born”, the name of which every schoolchild knows today - Bayerisch Motoren Werke AG (BMW). It was created by the merger of two small companies founded by engineers Gustav Otto and Karl Rapp.

Difficult times in the history of the German automobile industry began in the 20-30s of the last century, when the Nazis came to power. Although they provided serious support to automobile factories, they focused them more on the production of military equipment.

But the civilian sector did not stand aside either - in 1933, Hitler ordered the design of a “truly people's car” that would become accessible to the majority of the population, and a couple of years later the production of the legendary Volkswagen Beetle (aka “Beetle”) model began.

In the 50-60s, the German automobile industry experienced the consequences of World War II, which is why it lost the palm to American, Italian and English companies. However, this recession did not last long, and already in the 70-80s the rapid dawn of German industry began, and representatives of the “Big Three” quickly established themselves as world leaders in the production of cars.

In the modern world, automobile manufacturers from Germany have firmly established themselves in the world markets of all continents, offering a wide range of all kinds of models, both “truly popular” and truly luxurious.

Source: https://auto.ironhorse.ru/german-cars

German cars. List of German car brands:

German cars of various brands are known all over the world. And for a very long time they managed to take one of the leading places in popularity. Companies involved in the production of cars in Germany cover a large volume of the country's entire production. Some automakers have been operating for more than a century, others are closing down, unable to find a free place on the market.

History of the development of the automotive industry

The year 1861 can be considered the beginning of the development of the automobile industry. At this time, the first internal combustion engine was created. This was done by Nikolaus August Otto.

The first German car was assembled in 1885 thanks to the efforts of Karl Benz. He was able to install a single-cylinder engine on the carriage, which had a power of one horsepower and accelerated to sixteen kilometers per hour. Over the following years, Benz managed to reach certain heights in his business. By the beginning of the twentieth century, he already owned the first automobile plant.

Gottlieb Daimler also worked with Benz at the same time. His main achievement was the four-cylinder car.

Thanks to the efforts of these two engineers and their association, the Mercedes brand arose. This happened in 1926.

Their competitor was August Horch, who in 1909 opened the Horch company. A year later, he created the Audi company.

A few years later, in 1917, Gustav Otto and Karl Rapp opened their own company in Munich, which today is known to everyone under the BMW brand.

Automakers from Germany began to experience certain difficulties during the Nazis’ rise to power. They demanded the creation of military equipment. Cars for citizens were relegated to the background.

The fifties and sixties were characterized by a decline in the development of the German automobile industry. This is due to the consequences of the Second World War. But by the mid-seventies everything had improved. Cars of German brands began to quickly conquer the world.

The most popular car brands in Germany

Cars of German brands are recognized all over the world. Some are rightfully considered national brands. Others set the trend for the development of the entire automotive industry, serving as a unique example. But they are all distinguished by high quality, good handling and stylish design.

"Volkswagen"

This company began its work a little later than other automakers. This happened in 1937. And it was discovered by Ferdinand Porsche. Volkswagen cars are rightfully popular. The most popular model is “Golf”. It perfectly combines two indicators – quality and price.

The company has achieved tremendous success. It subjugated such large manufacturers as Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche, Bentley, MAN, Scania.

"Audi"

German Audi cars began to be produced in 1909. These are high quality cars that are still sold all over the world today.

The company symbol is associated with the events of 1932. At that time, Audi merged with three companies, creating one large enterprise. Thus, the automaker at that time included four companies. They are symbolized by the four interconnected rings on the brand emblem.

In 1966, Audi became part of the Volkswagen holding company.

"BMW"

The company began its activities in 1916 with the production of engines for military aircraft. The first cars of this brand appeared in 1929. And even then they were distinguished by a special character, causing an amazing feeling from the combination of drive and high controllability.

German BMW cars attract attention due to their high-quality and fashionable engines. It is the installed power units that give the cars a sporty and slightly aggressive character.

BMW is considered a leader in the production of luxury cars.

"Mercedes"

For almost a hundred years, the company has been producing luxury car models under this brand. The model range includes not only passenger cars, but also limousines, buses, trucks, and minibuses.

The name of the brand comes from the name of the daughter of its manufacturer. The brand symbol in the form of a three-pointed star signifies the unity of work on land, air and water.

For convenience, the entire model range is divided into classes: A, B, C, E, S, R, CLS, GLK, SL, CL, SLK, SLS, G and GL.

"Opel"

The name of the brand comes from the name of the Oppel district, where the history of this brand began. A young man from those places went to study, became a manufacturer and began producing hats.

His son, having visited France, brought his father a sewing machine. This was the impetus for the creation of hat making machines. In 1884, the company began producing bicycles.

And already in 1897, German Opel cars appeared.

A large assortment of models is one of the main reasons for the popularity of the brand among car owners.

"MAN"

This company produces buses, trucks, turbines, and diesel engines. It originates from a metallurgical plant opened back in 1758.

At the beginning of the 2000s, the company was involved in a serious scandal involving corruption on a particularly large scale. It was proven that MAN received large orders for the supply of its products from representatives of various countries in exchange for bribes.

In July 2011, more than half of the company's shares were acquired by the Volkswagen holding company.

MAN vehicles are divided into the following families:

TGX, characterized by an increased level of comfort, a permissible load of up to seventy tons and an engine power of up to 680 hp. With.
TGS is construction equipment with a power of up to 70 tons and an engine of up to 680 hp. With.
TGM - medium-tonnage vehicles with a permissible load of up to twenty tons and an engine of up to 380 hp. With.
TGL is designed for transporting cargo around the city. Load up to seven tons. Engine power up to 250 hp. With.

After 2013, MAN cars underwent restyled changes. This applies to the entire model range.

German cars made in Russia

Many German-brand cars are assembled at factories located in Russia. Today, the following brands of cars are assembled in the country:

"BMW", which are produced at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad. Initially, only models of the third series were produced here. Since 2010, BMW fifth series, as well as X3, X5 and X6, have been assembled in Russia.
Volkswagens are assembled at the Kaluga plant "Grabtsevo". Production began with the Passats. Today, one hundred thousand cars of all existing models are assembled annually.
The same plant produces German Skoda cars. They satisfy the need for cars of this brand in the country by almost one hundred percent.
The Kaluga region is also known as the place where Audi is assembled. The main components of the car are manufactured here.

Cars assembled in Russia, even under German brands, are mostly sold to local buyers. Therefore, their assembly is focused on Russian conditions.

This leads to some design changes. But this does not deteriorate the quality indicators. Many components and parts are sent to Russia from Germany.

In the Kaluga region, cars are almost entirely assembled from imported parts.

BMWs assembled in Russia have larger springs, reinforced stabilizers, and an electronic system tuned to low temperatures. Other models assembled in the Kaluga region do not differ significantly from those produced in Germany.

It is very difficult to say exactly which cars are better to choose, those made in Russia or Germany. It is important to consider all factors here. Many are accustomed to the fact that goods made abroad are more reliable than domestic ones. But even if a car there is relatively inexpensive, it costs a lot of money to drive it.

In Russia, models are assembled using German parts. This takes into account the conditions in which the car will be operated. They are more adapted to Russian roads and severe frosts. There are defective models. But their percentage is no more than that for German production.

A German car is a guarantee of quality and reliability, regardless of where it was assembled.

Source: https://www.syl.ru/article/287929/new_nemetskie-mashinyi-spisok-nemetskih-marok-avtomobiley

All about German car brands. German car brands icons

German car brands Mercedes-Benx, Opel, Volkswagen and BMW are recognized leaders in Europe, and on the world stage, in terms of the number of cars produced, Germany is second only to Japan and the USA. China's rapidly developing auto industry is confidently breaking into the top three, displacing the German giants and pioneers of the automotive industry to fourth place in the world rankings.

Cars from Germany became in demand thanks to the famous scrupulousness and pedantry of the local population. Every detail meets strict quality standards, so the cars are highly safe and serve their owners for many years without breaking down.

Regardless of the brand, a car from Germany means reliability, increased comfort and a guarantee of the highest build quality.

History of German car brands

The automotive industry is a core sector of the German economy. The first experiments in developing an internal combustion engine were carried out by the German inventor Nicholas Augus Otto back in 1861. In parallel with his colleague, engineer Karl Benz worked on creating a technical alternative to the horse and attached a low-power motor with one cylinder to the carriage.

Continuing to improve his brainchild, by 1900 Karl was able to launch mass production of the first cars. In 1926 he was joined by engineer Gottlieb Daimler.

Together with him, they founded a joint venture and presented to the world the first cars of the legendary German brand Mercedes Benz, which still continues to be on the list of the most popular brands.

At the turn of the 20th century, August Horch founded the Audi brand, and Gustav Otto and Karl Rapp founded Bayerisch Motoren Werke AG, better known by the abbreviation BMW.

Adolf Hitler's rise to power also affected the automobile industry. The head of state was preparing for war and supporting factories producing military equipment.

For the population, the Reich Chancellor demanded the development of affordable compact transport. This is how the legendary Beetle (Beetle) of the Volkswagen brand appeared.

In the post-war years, the auto industry experienced a decline, but towards the end of the twentieth century, manufacturers again broke into the top three in producing reliable cars for a wide range of consumers.

Today, just under 12 million cars roll off the assembly lines of German car factories: half of them are produced in their homeland, and 5.5 million units are assembled under license in other countries of the world. In addition to vehicles themselves, trailers, tools, spare parts and tuning equipment are manufactured at large industrial enterprises in the country.

Having gone through a difficult path of development, small companies turned into the world's largest concerns, which became the basis of the German national economy.

Review of the best brands of German passenger cars

The list of German brands of passenger cars is presented in different price categories: from the affordable Opel to the luxurious exclusive Rolls-Royce.

A distinctive feature of all machines manufactured in Germany is the excellent quality of parts and assembly. Classic cars are more expensive than their counterparts from other countries, but the price is justified by their long service life without the need for frequent repairs.

The TOP ranking of the best brands of German-made cars includes Volkswagen, Opel, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Audi. Each new generation of vehicles is characterized by improved technical performance.

Although Germany is traditionally characterized by the production of mainly passenger cars, over the past ten years comfortable buses, trucks and light-duty vehicles have been rolling off production lines.

German car manufacturers have taken leading positions thanks to the production of budget cars, sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, sports cars, SUVs, crossovers and premium cars.

List of German car brands with badges and names

The main automakers in Germany have their roots in the era of the birth of the automobile industry. From small private companies they have turned into real empires. All of them have an extensive network of factories around the world, where machines are assembled under the original license.

Mercedes Benz

One of the most recognizable car brands in Germany. The logo features a steel-colored three-pointed star. The auto company's slogan: “The best or nothing!” One of the first companies founded by Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz.

Currently, Mercedes Benz is one of the largest players on the world stage in the production of expensive luxury cars. The lineup includes limousines, minibuses, trucks and buses.

It is noteworthy that Mercedes cars are often used by directors for filming feature films.

Volkswagen

According to statistics, every 50th German certainly owns a car of this brand. The logo features a white V and W surrounded by a blue circle. Three models of the German car brand Volkswagen are among the top ten best-selling cars in history: Beetle, Golf and Passat. The famous Beetle, which later became the prototype of compact, low-budget, maneuverable cars, received the People's title.

Opel

The company has existed since the mid-19th century, but Adam Opel decided to start producing cars at the turn of the millennium. For more than a hundred years, a small enterprise has turned into a powerful concern for the production of hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers and minivans. The emblem depicts a silver lightning bolt enclosed in a circle, which symbolizes lightning speed and the ability to develop high speed.

Porsche

The German brand produces sports cars that are included in the list of elite, reliable and dynamic vehicles suitable for participation in racing competitions.

The cars are characterized by a high degree of reliability and a design unique to the German automobile industry.

Due to high fuel consumption, the demand for cars in this series has dropped slightly, and management decided to additionally produce economical crossovers and sedans.

BMW

BMW literally means “Bavarian Motor Works”. The emblem depicts a propeller framed in black with an abbreviation at the top. The choice of the icon is not accidental, since the company started with the production of aircraft engines.

White and blue symbolize steel and sky, and also repeat the colors of the Bavarian flag. Having refocused on the production of cars, they created prestigious cars, distinguished by their original sporty design and high power characteristics.

The BMW concern has become one of the most important players in the car market and has managed to acquire ownership of Seat, Skoda, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Bentley.

Audi

In 1934, four automobile companies decided to unite into a powerful automobile concern. This is reflected in the icon, visually reminiscent of 4 interconnected chrome rings. Despite the frequent change of shareholders, the company continues to carry out professional activities and delight drivers with new high-tech Audi cars.

Daimler

One of the largest and most significant transnational automakers that bought out the American Chrysler. Owns shares of several auto companies, including Tesla Motors, Renault Nissan, KAMAZ, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corp and others. It includes divisions that produce cars and trucks, heavy-duty trucks and buses.

Famous liquidated German car brands

Some auto companies managed to loudly declare themselves, but, unable to withstand competition from stronger concerns, were forced to announce their closure. Excellent build quality makes them popular to this day.

Maybach

The company has been producing luxury cars since the beginning of the last century. The company's emblem depicts two intersecting letters M (Maybach Manufacture). Over the years of its existence, the powerful corporation produced aircraft engines, tanks for the Wehrmacht and luxury cars for the respectable public. Maybach officially closed in 2012 due to falling demand.

Wartburg

The company specialized in the production of low-budget people's cars and existed from 1956 to 1991.

Cheap cars fully met the needs of drivers and were distinguished by good consumer qualities. Each new model was an updated version of the previous one.

Despite its continued success, the East German company could not withstand competition with powerful auto giants.

Source: https://automonth.ru/nemeckie-marki-avtomobilej/

All German car brands - history of production in Germany

Manufacturers of vehicles from Germany are considered one of the recognized standards of quality in the automotive market.

The average person knows only the most famous brands of German cars, such as Mercedes, Volkswagen, Audi, but in fact there are many more of them, and they all have a very interesting history.

It is proposed to consider in a few words all German car brands, to slightly lift the veil of secrecy over the automotive industry of a country so respected in its market segment.

German car manufacturers

Large manufacturers

Unlike brands, some of which may produce products in the same plant, there are slightly fewer German car manufacturers. For example, modern large German car companies: Audi, BMW, Opel, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche.

True, almost all of the above manufacturers have a number of brands, let’s say, that are not characteristic of their name, and are produced not under the auspices of Germany, but in various countries of the world. However, these are established players in the car market not only in their region, but also far beyond its borders.

It is thanks to these companies that German car brands are considered the best in the world.

Small producers

However, there is also a German car manufacturer with a rather modest annual production volume.

As a rule, these are factories and companies specializing in the production of relatively expensive models and types of vehicles that come out of hand-assembled workshops in small batches.

For example, these are such German car brands as the same Maybach, or the relatively recently created Wiesmann, Gumpert.

Liquidated producers

Just as there are defunct German car brands, so you can also find manufacturers that have left the industry. The reasons are sometimes the most banal - the lack of competitive models, the high cost of cars, the weak technical component, the influence of economic factors.

For example, Barkas produced no passenger vehicles; as a result of its weak market position, the popular manufacturer ended its existence in obscurity.

True, its products can still be found on the streets - buses are incredibly popular among fans of retro-style vehicles, but that's how the German car brand Barkas ceased to exist anyway.

This also includes the DKW concern, the technical component of whose cars was weak and sales of motorcycles were insignificant. As a result, the company simply left the market, opening the way for young and promising companies.

Interesting logos of car manufacturers in Germany

No less than the number of brands and manufacturers of automobiles in Germany, the history of their logos is striking. For example, the Aaglander brand logo looks stylish and practical.

It evokes the shades of the layers of high society, the shield decorated with a crown looks simply perfect, peculiarly reminiscent of a noble coat of arms.

By the way, the Alpina company has a very attractive logo, with automotive parts located in it, as a tribute to the industry in which the concern itself operates.

The Audi logo has a unique history, because few people realize that it symbolizes the merger of four other manufacturing companies that formed this concern in 1934.

When these companies were merged, the original logo concept was to combine them, but the owners of the concern accepted the fact that the design of four combined logos looked bulky and irrational and simply decided to replace it with four rings.

The Gumpert Apollo logo features an image of a griffin, a mythological creature that seems to convey the very atmosphere in which the manufacturer directly works.

The Gembalia company logo uses a regular shield, on which the name of the company is written in stylized letters, as well as its relationship to vehicle tuning.

The Brennabor logo looks somewhat interesting, namely, a stylized image of the capital letter “B” on the original background.

All German car logos

Aaglander

It will be proposed to begin the review of all brands of German cars with the Aaglander company. Production is focused on the production of convertibles that are simply luxurious in their characteristics, specially stylized in a retro style.

The concern itself was founded relatively recently, by the standards of the automotive industry, in 1993. The founder of such a unique idea was the quite successful German businessman R.

Beals, who decided to realize his vision of producing luxury cars, settling in the small town of Kuhlenfels.

AVT

Further, the brands of German cars are no less successfully complemented by the famous ABT company in Germany, which amazes with its specialization. The company is engaged in high-quality and completely original tuning of vehicles, primarily racing and sports.

The main focus of the enterprise is to work with all subsidiaries and companies of the manufacturer of the “people's car” Volkswagen AG, which is incredibly popular both in Germany and throughout the world.

It is worth noting that the ABT brand is positioned as a completely successful racing team, whose representatives proudly display the name of their main sponsor and patron on the tracks.

It specializes primarily in the modernization and modification of chassis components and assemblies of sports cars, high-quality tuning of electronics, and ensuring aerodynamic characteristics. The company’s rather interesting and simple logo stands out, a stylized image of the abbreviation “AVT”.

Alpina

German car brands sometimes surprise and reveal a lot of new things to potential consumers. This also applies to the manufacturer Alpina, whose specialty is the creation of luxury cars that are impressive in their parameters and style.

What is noteworthy is that production is carried out based on the products of the popular automotive giant BMW, exclusively to order. Both the company's plant itself and the headquarters, which carries out all management, are located in the town of Buschloe.

Among luxury car manufacturers in the country, this is, without exaggeration, the oldest brand, founded back in 1964, only three years later, after which it received its own brand name. B. can rightfully be considered the founder.

Bovinsipen, who made every effort to ensure that this automobile brand became easily recognizable on the streets of all European and world capitals without exception.

Amphicar

The products presented on the market by another brand of German cars, Amphicar, can be called somewhat surprising and somewhat paradoxical. In fact, this is a unique floating car of its kind, designed for four seats and mass-produced.

By the way, the Amphicar was the first and only amphibious vehicle in Germany that went into mass production and sale to ordinary citizens.

True, native Germans rarely had the opportunity to try all its capabilities and quality characteristics in practice, since the bulk of the production (about 3,878 vehicles were produced in total) were sold to dealers from the USA.

Nevertheless, the success and popularity of this vehicle, as well as its creators, is still remembered by ordinary vehicle lovers from Germany. The company logo is a stylistic representation of the name.

Artega

Perhaps the youngest German car brand is Artega. In addition, this is not just a young company, but one might say, the most “unlucky”.

Production was founded in 2006 and after 6 years, in 2012 it was subject to closure, since, according to the official version, the technologies used by the engineers were in fact too advanced for their time and the society towards which the concern’s cars were oriented.

After an unsuccessful start in the automotive industry, the company was bought by an already well-known manufacturer - the giant Volkswagen. All technical developments previously patented as part of the company’s production were introduced into prototypes of future production cars, which the world will see in 2016.

Audi

There are truly very few people in this world who do not know about the products of such a revered brand as Audi. Considering existing or previously existing brands of German cars, it was simply impossible not to include the concern in this list.

The company specializes in the production of vehicles in the business and luxury segments; it also produces crossovers and sports cars.

The products are distinguished by the highest level of quality, elaboration of various elements, as well as the creation of the most impressive design solutions, which allows you to recognize Audi cars right on the street.

Barkas

In fact, the Barkas company positions itself as the heir to the once communist Germany, which ceased to exist due to the unification of the state into a single whole.

It existed in the period 1961-1991 and specialized in the production of comfortable buses in the GDR.

In particular, the B1000 model vans, as well as various trucks and special vehicles designed directly on their basis, were highly valued and popular among potential consumers.

Bavaria

The Bavaria concern, founded in 1997, can be called a kind of technical breakthrough in the market of special-purpose vehicles in Germany.

During the same period, the main direction of activity of this brand of German cars was finally approved, namely, the production of high-quality and original motorhomes. After some time, the production of vans was launched, performing a variety of production tasks.

Surprisingly, the company’s products are completely unified; for example, the same vans, if necessary, can easily be re-equipped for completely different needs.

BMW

Not only in Germany, but throughout the world, the products of the famous automobile brand BMW, which at one time modestly began its activity in creating aircraft engines, became famous.

The history of this concern goes back about 100 years, but the final version of the emblem was created in 1920 and remains virtually unchanged today.

What is noteworthy is that the company’s products are famous and popular both among ordinary citizens and wealthier segments of the population.

There is a wide assortment of the model range, its prompt updating and flexible pricing policy. What is noteworthy is that the company has a number of representative offices and subsidiaries in different regions of the planet.

Brennabor

One of the oldest car manufacturers in its segment, Brennabor existed in the period 1871-1945, when it managed to release many unique creations. In addition to cars, until the mid-1930s it positioned itself as one of the popular and respected manufacturers of strollers and bicycles in its class not only in Germany, but also in Europe.

Daimler

Another once popular vehicle manufacturer in Germany is the Daimler concern.

It produced its first car in 1896, but only half a century passed, after which the company sold its shares and now belongs to the no less popular Jaguar concern.

The logo also looks simple and concise, in the form of a name made in stylized “metal style” letters.

DKW

One of the manufacturers that occupied a small niche (in terms of production volume) in the German automotive industry and was little known outside of it was DKW.

The German car brand was registered in 1916 and ceased to exist about half a century later, in 1966, without achieving worldwide recognition.

The main activity of the company was the production of passenger cars, as well as motorcycles, which today remain only in collections and private museums.

Gemballa

The Gemballa company specializes in providing high-quality car tuning in all respects, and also produces individual models.

The concern was registered in the city of Leonberg, the main activity is to increase the power characteristics of the products of another concern - Porsche, as well as the creation of unique business and luxury class vehicles created on its basis.

Since 2012, the products have been based on the engineering developments of another popular “sports” concern McLaren.

Goliath

Another automobile concern that has already become a thing of the past is Goliath. It existed on the German market in the period 1928-1959, after which it ceased operations.

High-quality passenger cars, as well as quite spacious trucks, rolled off the assembly line. A unique line of the concern can be called the production of vehicles with a three-wheeled base, which were aimed purely at the budget segment of the market.

The logo was a stylized company name, made in gold.

Gumpert Apollo

One of the most popular German car manufacturers today “among the enlightened” is the company Gumpert Apollo. The company was founded in 2012, and today produces expensive and equally high-quality sports cars.

Horch

The once popular, but today almost forgotten Horch concern has long been considered the privilege of aristocrats not only in Germany, but also in the entire civilized world. The concern was at the peak of its popularity in the period 1930-1940, when it was customary to see it in the garages of famous entrepreneurs and prominent political figures.

A stylized image of the first letter of the name, as well as the surname of the founder, was chosen as the logo. Currently, these cars are not actually produced, since their era is long gone. However, the products of the once majestic concern are popular among collectors and can be found in museums.

Source: http://jeepclubspb.ru/vse-marki-avtomobilej-mira/nemetskie-marki-mashin/

List of the best German car brands

When you see such cars, you will immediately recognize the notorious German quality! We present to your attention a list of German cars.

Brief background: how Germany began to produce cars

The history of German car companies began at the moment when they began to produce high-quality vehicles, moreover, the characteristics of the cars were valued more than their appearance.

First of all, when producing German cars, companies relied on quality, strictly according to the principle “functionality is more important than form.” That is why Germany is considered the leader in car production in Europe and is included in the list of 5 countries producing high-quality cars. You may be interested in the article 10 most anticipated automobile new products of 2017.

Every year, German automobile companies produce about 6 million cars; with such indicators, German cars are deservedly called the most advanced.

Automobile production took off in a big way in 1870, when engineers Karl Benz and Nikolaus Otto figured out how to invent a four-stroke internal combustion engine. Thanks to him, Germany increased production to 1000 copies per year.

Company names, list, and logos of all German car brands

Absolutely all German car manufacturers are known for distributing the best cars in the world on the market. Pay attention to the article 15 best cars of 2016, where there was also a place for German cars. In addition to the quality of production technology, German cars boast exceptional design and incredible speed.

Everyone knows that they can also give any driver a unique experience.

All the most popular models belong to the collections of sports cars and luxury cars, which have a unique style and a high level of workmanship.

German cars rightfully occupy a place in the ranking of 10 cars that cause envy among car enthusiasts. Further in the article there will be a list of German brands and their company logos.

The most famous German car companies

The site contains a list of the most famous German car manufacturers, including BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Porsche. As you can see, most of these companies deal with luxury cars, and their high quality standards are known and appreciated all over the world.

1. Audi – “Truth in Engineering”

Production: 1909 to present
Headquarters: Ingolstadt, Germany
Founders: August Horch
Website: audi.com

History: The company was founded in 1909 in Ingolstadt, Bavaria. It is one of the most renowned companies engaged in the design, development, production, sales and distribution of machines. The company received its name in tribute to the memory of its founder, August Horch, translated from German horch means “listen”.

Later, in July 1909, the Audi Automobilwerke company (translated as “Audi Automobile Plant”) was organized. In 1932, Audi was merged with Horch, DKW and Wanderer to form a single company, Auto Union, hence the explanation for the unusual logo consisting of 4 rings. Since 1966, Audi has been part of the Volkswagen Group.

Statistics: Currently, the company's sales continue to grow. In 2013 they increased by 8%. The main distribution areas for Audi cars continue to be Eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Models: Audi sedan (A1-A8), Audi coupe and SUVs (SUV), S and RS

The most popular models are:

Audi A8,
Audi TT,
Audi A3,
Audi A6,
Audi A1.

This list is formed based on sales. Most likely, fans of German cars know that in 2013 the top 5 best-selling Audi models consisted of the AUDI A3 and all SUV models.

2. MERCEDES-BENZ

Production: 1926 to present
Headquarters: Stuttgart, Germany
Founders: Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler
Website: mercedes-benz.com

The company that manufactures such famous luxury cars has maintained its fame for over a century.

One cannot but agree that Mercedes-Benz is one of the oldest automobile companies still in existence.

In the auto industry, Mercedes-Benz is known for its limousines, which are repeatedly featured in movies - after all, the company produces some of the best cars in the world. Pay attention to the article 10 most expensive limousines in the world.

Since its founding, Mercedes has led the market with cars that combine unique style and unique technology. Over time, the company began producing luxury cars, trucks, buses, limousines and trailers.

The list of Mercedes cars includes cars such as:

passenger cars (CLA-Class, C-Class, GLK, R-Class, E-Class Wagon, CLS-Class, S-Class),
luxury cars (CLA-Class, C-Class, E-Class, R-Class, E-Class Wagon, CLS-Class, S-Class Hybrid, S-Class, SL-Class, CL-Class),
sports cars (SLK, SLS),
SUVs/crossovers (GLK, M-Class, M-Class Hybrid, GL-Class, G-Class),
trailers and minivans (Sprinter).

Luxury cars from Mercedes-Benz: limousines

The sophisticated world of cars was noticed thanks to the Mercedes-Benz 600, a luxury car that was produced in 2 different models: a sedan with a short wheelbase and 4 doors, a Pullman limousine with a long wheelbase and 4 doors, and also a limousine with 6 doors. Their production began in 1964. In 1972, 600 of these models appeared on the market.

Those who owned such a unique model of Mercedes-Benz car include::

Coco Chanel,
Hugh Hefner
Elizabeth Taylor,
John Lennon.

The most popular Mercedes sedan model is the Mercedes Benz CLA; since April 2013, it has brought the company sales of 100,000 units. They were in greatest demand in the USA, where about 27,000 cars were sold.

3. BMW

Production: 1916 to present
Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria
Founders: Franz Joseph Popp
Website: bmw.com/com/en/, www.bmwgroup.com

In German, the name of this company sounds like “Bavarian Motor Works”. The company's success lies in its focus on improving the engine. For a long time, engineers of many generations have been solving this issue. Much effort has been made to ensure that the company's name is associated with quality and excellence in execution.

In 1929, BMW began producing cars and has since been known for its cars and SUVs that can provide a great driving experience. The company produces passenger cars, luxury cars, sports cars, SUVs and pickup trucks.

Luxury cars from BMW

In May 2014, BMW achieved record sales. Thanks to this event, the company was recognized as a world leader in the production of luxury cars.

The top seller is the most popular BMW model, the BMW X. It reflects all the requirements necessary for SUVs, which could not but give the company a positive result. You might be interested in the article 10 coolest SUVs.

4. VOLKSWAGEN

Production: 1937 to present
Headquarters: Wolfsburg, Germany
Founders: Ferdinand Porsche
Website: volkswagen.com, www.vw.com

In 1937, Ferdinand Porsche laid the foundations of the Volkswagen company. At that time, the company specialized only in luxury cars. It’s not for nothing that they say about this brand “a car for people”, because it is known that Volkswagen produces the best German cars. The company remains successful to this day and is on par with SEAT, Skoda, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Lamborghini and Bugatti in terms of quality.

In Europe, in terms of price, the Volkswagen Golf is considered the most successful model among all others. Sales rose 28% in January, according to JATO Dynamics.

5. PORSCHE

Production: 1931 to present
Headquarters: Stuttgart, Germany
Founders: Ferdinand Porsche
Website: porsche.com

Porsche is an active automobile company that specializes in the production of sedans, hypercars, supercars, SUVs and sports cars. This German car company earned a huge reputation for itself in the late 80s and early 90s, although it is no longer as popular today.

The most famous models include:

918,
Macan,
Cayenne,
Cayman
Boxter,
Panamera.

Other German car companies

Below is information about other German companies involved in the production of cars. They are not so popular, but in Germany the brands of these companies have gained recognition; and, of course, they contribute to the economy and the automotive industry.

6. ADAM OPEL AG

Production: 1862 to present
Headquarters: Rüsselsheim, Hesse, Germany
Founders: Adam Opel
Website: opel.com

Opel AG has been in the automotive business for over 153 years. Initially, it was engaged in the production of bicycles. But, having paid attention to the creation of the first car, Opel AG switched its attention to cars, and the first model was released in 1899. Undoubtedly, you may have noticed how gangsters and the mafia drive around in Opel cars in movies.

7. ALPINA

Production: 1965 to present
Headquarters: Buchlohe, Germany
Founders: BMW
Website: alpina-automobiles.com

Alpina is another German automobile company that started its journey in 1965. Although the company is not particularly popular, it still continues to work and collaborate with BMW in the production of its cars. Thanks to this, Alpina is still in demand in some areas of Germany.

8. BITTER CARS

Production: 1971 to present
Headquarters: Schwelm, Germany
Founders: Erich Bitter
Website: bittercars.com

Founded by Erich Bitter, who was a former racing driver, Erich Bitter Automobil GmbH (Bitter) has distinguished itself as a manufacturer of German sports cars and luxury cars. The company was not destined to become very popular, but it is one of those that still produces unique sports cars.

9. GUMPERT

Production: 2004 to present
Headquarters: Altenburg, Thuringia, Germany
Founders: Roland Gumpert
Website: gumpert.de

Gumpert is another car company that has been around for a while; It cannot boast of fame similar to Volkswagen, BMW and Audi. Gumpert mainly specializes in the production of supercars, the most famous model being the Apollo Racecar. You might be interested in the article 15 best supercars of 2015.

10. ISDERA

Production: 1969 to present
Headquarters: Hildesheim, Germany
Founders: Eberhard Schulz
Website: isdera.de

Isdera is one of the few private automobile companies whose full name is “Ingenieurburo fur Styling, Design und Racing.” The company mainly produces sports cars, and a team of craftsmen is responsible for this. One such car even appeared in the beloved computer game Need for Speed II, released in 1997.

11. KEINATH

Production: 1983 to present
Headquarters: Reutlingen, Germany
Founders: Horst Keinath
Website: unavailable

Many German auto companies specialize in the production of sports and racing cars, as well as luxury cars. Keinath has been exclusively involved in racing cars since 1983.

She started car production with the popular Opel Monza and then continued in the same spirit with the GTR, which was praised for its sporty style and incredible power.

List of closed German car companies

These companies have already ceased to exist, but it was they who helped Germany win an honorable place in the global auto industry. For example, the concerns Auto Union AG and DKW helped launch the currently well-known brand – Audi.

12. ADLER

Production: 1900 to 1957
Headquarters: non-existent
Founders: Heinrich Kleier
Website: unavailable

Adler is one of those German car companies that were popular in the early 1900s. This company successfully produced about 30 cars, each of which was unique in its own way. In addition to cars, the company also manufactured typewriters, bicycles and motorcycles.

13. AUTO UNION AG

Production: 1932 to 1966
Headquarters: Chemnitz (1932 - 1948), Ingolstadt (1949 - 1968), Ingolstadt/current Audi AG headquarters (1985 - present) )
Founders: no
Website: unavailable

Will you be stunned by the fact that Audi owes its logo to the Auto Union concern? Probably yes! In the early 1930s Auto Union was a successful manufacturer of popular cars, but later competition came from Volkswagen, and Auto Union transformed into Audi.

14.DKW

Production: 1928 to 1966
Headquarters: Saxony, Germany
Founders: Jorgen Skafte Rasmussen
Website: unavailable

And again an amazing fact! As you can see from the picture, DKW was a separate car company before it merged with Auto Union AG. Before this, the company introduced the first steam engine in 1919, and after the merger, it produced its last machine in 1966. In addition to cars, DKW also produced motorcycles.

15. BORGWARD

Production: 1929 to 1961
Headquarters: Bremen, Germany
Founders: Karl Borgward
Website: unavailable

At the end of the 30s In the 20th century, Borgward was considered one of the most popular automobile companies. It was founded in Bremen and enjoyed great success for a long time.

Before bankruptcy, Borgward was engaged in the production of cars of 4 different models:

Lloyd
Goliath
Hansa,
Bogward.

16. Eisenacher Motorenwerk (EMW)

Production: 1945 to 1956
Headquarters: Eisenach, Germany
Founders: unknown
Website: unavailable

Eisenacher Motorenwerk (more commonly abbreviated EMW) is a former East German automobile company. The headquarters were located in Eisenach, and the company itself was quite popular in the 50s. 20th century, as it produced sports cars and cars for Formula 1. The company was closed due to bankruptcy.

We have tried to include all manufacturers in the list, but if you find an error or inaccuracy, please let us know and leave a comment below.