List of automotive superlatives


List of automotive superlatives


Automotive superlatives include attributes such as the smallest, largest, fastest, lightest, best-selling, and so on.

This list (except for the firsts section) is limited to automobiles built after World War II, and lists superlatives for earlier vehicles separately. The list is also limited to production road cars that:

  • Are constructed principally for retail sale to consumers for personal use transporting people on public roads. No commercial or industrial vehicles are included
  • Have had 25 or more instances made by the original vehicle manufacturer offered for sale to the public in new condition (cars modified by either professional tuners or individuals are not eligible)
  • Are street-legal in their intended markets and capable of passing any official tests or inspections required to be granted this status

Calendar years rather than "model years" are used except when explicitly marked as otherwise.

Vehicle dimensions

Length

  • Longest
    • Car
      • Current production car – 5,982 mm (235.5 in) – 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB
      • Production car – 6,852 mm (269.75 in) – 1962–1977 eight door Checker Aerobus
      • Production station wagon – 6,852 mm (269.75 in) – 1962–1977 nine door Checker Aerobus
      • Limited production coupe – 6,400 millimetres (250 in) – 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner
      • Production convertible – 6,096 mm (240.0 in) – 1934–1935 (for the 1934–1935 model years) Cadillac V-16
    • Truck
      • Pickup truck – 6,762 mm (266.2 in) – Ford F-250/F-350 crew cab long bed
    • SUV – 5,766 mm (227.0 in) – 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV
    • Van – 7,628 mm (300.3 in) Iveco Daily
  • Shortest
    • Current production car – 1,371 mm (54.0 in) – 2011 Peel P50
    • Production car – 1,340 mm (52.8 in) – 1962–1965 Peel P50
    • Two seat production car – 1,854 mm (73 in) – Peel Trident
    • Four seat production car – 2,900 mm (114 in) – 1957–1959 BMW 600 (international)
    • SUV / dually truck – 2,324 mm (91.5 in) – 1950–1952 Crosley Farm-O-Road
    • Four-wheel-drive car – 2,718 mm (107 in) – 1959–1962 M422 Mighty Mite
    • Light military truck – 2,718 mm (107 in) – 1959–1962 M422 Mighty Mite

Width (without mirrors)

  • Widest
    • Car
      • Current production car – 2,099 mm (82.6 in) – Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4
      • Production car – 2,105 mm (82.9 in) – 1953–54 (for the 1954 model year) Chrysler Crown Imperial
      • Production convertible – 2,096 mm (82.5 in) – 2004 Maserati MC12
      • Production station wagon – 2,070 mm (81.5 in) – 1959–60 (for the 1960 model year) Mercury Colony Park/Commuter, and Ford Country Squire/Country Sedan/Ranch Wagon
      • Limited production convertible – 2,100 mm (82.7 in) (armoured) – 1938–1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150
    • Pickup truck – 2,436 mm (95.9 in) – Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
    • SUV
      • SUV – 2,197 mm (86.5 in) – 1991–2006 (for the 1992–2006 model years) Hummer H1
    • Van
      • Current van – 2,112 mm (83.1 in) Ford Transit
      • Van – 2,240 mm (88.2 in) Mercedes-Benz Vario
  • Narrowest
    • Current production car – 1,475 mm (58.1 in) – all Japanese kei cars
    • Current production car (international) – 1,495 mm (58.9 in) – Maruti Suzuki Alto
    • Production car – 711 mm (28 in) – 1946 Larmar

Height

  • Tallest
    • Car
      • Current production car – 1,835 mm (72.2 in) – Daihatsu Wake/Hijet Caddie/Toyota Pixis Mega
      • Production car – 2,550 mm (100.4 in) – 1904–1909 Fiat 60 HP
    • Pickup Truck – 2,956 mm (116.4 in) – Brabus Unimog U500 Black Edition
    • SUV – 1,989 mm (78.3 in) – Lincoln Navigator
    • Van – 3,055 mm (120.3 in) Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 906 L4H3
  • Lowest
    • Current production car – 1,015 mm (40.0 in) – Caterham 7 CSR
    • Production car – 810 mm (31.9 in) – 1956–1958 Lotus Eleven
    • Limited production car – 736.6 mm (29.0 in) – 1969 Probe 15

Wheelbase

  • Longest
    • Car
      • Current production car – 4,418 mm (173.9 in) – 2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman
      • Production car – 4,418 mm (173.9 in) – 2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman
      • Production convertible – 3,912 mm (154.0 in) (29 produced) – 1933–1937 (for the 1934–1937 model years) Cadillac V-16
      • Production coupe – 3,912 mm (154.0 in) (20 produced) – 1933–1937 (for the 1934–1937 model years) Cadillac V-16
      • Production station wagon – 3,340 mm (131.5 in) – 1950–51 (for the 1951 model year) Chrysler New Yorker Town and Country
      • Limited production car – 4,521 mm (178.0 in) – 1937 Duesenberg Model J "Father Divine"
      • Limited production coupe – 4,300 mm (169.3 in) – 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner
      • Limited production sedan – 4,521 mm (178.0 in) – 1937 Duesenberg Model J "Father Divine"
    • Pickup Truck – 4,379 mm (172.4 in) – Ford F-250/F-350 crew cab long bed
    • SUV
      • Current SUV – 3,406 mm (134.1 in) – Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade ESV
      • SUV – 3,482 mm (137.1 in) – Ford Excursion
      • Mid-sized SUV - 3,140 mm (123.6 in) – Haval H5
      • Compact SUV EV - 3,000 mm (118.1 in) – Hyundai Ioniq 5
    • Van – 4,332 mm (170.6 in) Nissan NV400, Opel/Vauxhall Movano and Renault Master
  • Shortest
    • Current production car – 1,867 mm (73.5 in) – Smart Fortwo
    • Production car – 1,270 mm (50.0 in) – 1962–1965 Peel P50

Track

  • Widest front
    • Car
      • Production car – 1,784 mm (70.2 in) – 2022 Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4
      • Production station wagon – 1,628 mm (64.1 in) – 1968–1978 (for the 1969–1978 model years) Mercury Colony Park/Marquis/Monterey
    • Pickup truck – 1,958 mm (77.1 in) – 2019 Ram 5500 Regular Cab 120 CA
    • SUV
      • Current SUV – 1,745 mm (68.7 in) – Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon
      • SUV – 1,819 mm (71.6 in) – 1991–2006 (for the 1992–2006 model years) Hummer H1
    • Van – 1,786 mm (70.3 in) Ford E-150 regular wagon
  • Widest rear
    • Car
      • Production car – 1,722 mm (67.8 in) BMW i8
      • Production convertible – 1,722 mm (67.8 in) – BMW i8 Roadster
      • Production station wagon – 1,633 mm (64.3 in) – 1968–1978 (1969–1978 model years) Mercury Colony Park/Marquis/Monterey and Ford Country Squire/Country Sedan/Ranch Wagon
    • Pickup truck – 1,925 mm (75.8 in) – Ram 3500 DRW
    • SUV
      • Current SUV – 1,744 mm (68.7 in) – Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon
      • SUV – 1,819 mm (71.6 in) – 1991–2006 (for the 1992–2006 model years) Hummer H1
    • Van – 1,915 mm (75.4 in) Ford E-350 super duty dual rear wheels
  • Narrowest front – 990 mm (39.0 in) – 1962–1965 Peel P50
  • Narrowest rear – 521 mm (20.5 in) – 1953–1961 Isetta

Curb weight

  • Heaviest
    • Car
      • Production car – 5,100 kg (11,244 lb) – 2017 Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman Guard
      • Production convertible – 2,721.5–2,857.5 kg (6,000–6,300 lb) (29 produced) – 1933–1937 (for the 1934–1937 model years) Cadillac V-16
      • Production coupe – 2,975 kg (6,559 lb) – Rolls-Royce Spectre
      • Production station wagon – 2,449.5 kg (5,400 lb) – 1973–74 (for the 1974 model year) Buick Estate and Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser (with third seat and woodgrain)
      • Limited production convertible – 4,400 kg (9,700 lb) (armoured) – 1938–1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150
      • Limited production coupe – 3,175 kg (7,000 lb) – 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner
    • Pickup truck – 6,600 kg (14,551 lb) – International XT
    • SUV
      • Current SUV – 5,900 kg (13,000 lb) – 2008 Conquest Knight XV
      • SUV – 5,900 kg (13,000 lb) – 2008 Conquest Knight XV
    • Van
      • Current van – 3,075 kg (6,779 lb) – Iveco Daily
      • Van – 4,380 kg (9,656 lb) – Mercedes-Benz Vario
  • Lightest
    • Current production car – 440 kg (970 lb) – Caterham 7 170
    • Production car – 59 kg (130 lb) – 1962–1965 Peel P50

Engines

Engine displacement

Smallest

  • Current production car – 660 cc (40.3 cu in) – Caterham 7 160, as well as all kei cars
  • Production car
    • Single-cylinder – 49 cc (3.0 cu in) – 1962–1965 Peel P50
    • Two-cylinder – 352 cc (21.5 cu in) – 1967–1972 Honda N360
    • Three-cylinder – 356 cc (21.7 cu in) – 1967 Suzuki Fronte
    • Four-cylinder – 356 cc (21.7 cu in) – 1963–1967 Honda T360
    • Five-cylinder – 1.9 litres (117.2 cu in) – 1980–1982 Audi 100
    • Six-cylinder – 1.2 litres (73.4 cu in) – 1931–1933 Triumph 12-6 Scorpion
    • Eight-cylinder – 2.0 litres (121.5 cu in) – 1967–1969 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale and 1975–1980 Ferrari 208 GT4
    • Ten-cylinder – 4.8 litres (293.2 cu in) – 2010–2012 Lexus LFA
    • Twelve-cylinder – 2.0 litres (122.0 cu in) – 1948–1950 Ferrari 166 Inter

Largest

  • Current production car – 8.0 litres (487.8 cu in) – W16 2017 Bugatti Chiron
  • Production car
    • Three-cylinder – 2.0 litres (121.3 cu in) – 2020 Koenigsegg Gemera
    • Four-cylinder – 4.1 litres (250.4 cu in) – 1995-2001 Toyota Mega Cruiser – 15B engine
    • Five-cylinder – 3.7 litres (222.9 cu in) – 2007–2012 Chevrolet Colorado
    • Six-cylinder – 8.0 litres (487.2 cu in) - 1930-1932 Bentley 8 Litre
    • Eight-cylinder – 8.2 litres (500.0 cu in) – 1970–1976 Cadillac Eldorado
    • Ten-cylinder – 8.4 litres (511.5 cu in) – 2013–2017 Dodge Viper
    • Twelve-cylinder – 11.31 litres (690.18 cu in) – 1935–1938 Hispano-Suiza J12
    • Sixteen-cylinder – 8.35 litres (509.55 cu in) – 2025– Bugatti Tourbillon

Power

Highest power by engine type

  • Petrol engine (naturally aspirated) – 745.7 kW (1,014 PS; 1,000 hp) – Aston Martin Valkyrie, 6,500 cc (396.7 cu in) Cosworth V12
  • Petrol engine (forced induction) – 1,177 kW (1,600 PS; 1,578 bhp) – Bugatti Centodieci, 8,000 cc (488.2 cu in) W16
  • Diesel engine (naturally aspirated) – 138 kW (188 PS; 185 bhp) – 1992 Ford F-250/F-350, 7,276 cc (444.0 cu in) – International Harvester IDI V8
  • Diesel engine (forced induction) – 368 kW (500 PS; 493 bhp) – Audi Q7 V12 TDI, 5,934 cc (362.1 cu in) twin-turbo TDI V12 / 368 kW (500 PS; 493 bhp) Ford Super Duty, 6,651 cc (405.9 cu in) turbocharged Powerstroke V8
  • Electric motor – 1,471 kW (1,973 hp) – Lotus Evija
  • Plug-in hybrid – 1,118 kW (1,520 PS; 1,499 bhp) – Koenigsegg Regera (820 kW (1,115 PS; 1,100 bhp) of combustion engine power on 95 octane RON (somewhat more on E85) from a 5,000 cc (305.1 cu in) V8 and 520 kW (707 PS; 697 bhp) of electric propulsion)

Highest power by body style

  • 2-door coupé – 1,471 kW (2,000 PS; 1,973 bhp) – 2020 Lotus Evija; four electric motors
  • 4-door sedan – 761 kW (1,035 PS; 1,021 bhp) – 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid; three electric motors
  • Pickup truck/ute – 530 kW (721 PS; 711 bhp) 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R; 5,163 cc (315.1 cu in) V8 petrol
  • SUV – 529 kW (719 PS; 709 bhp) 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat; 6,166 cc (376.3 cu in) V8 petrol
  • Minivan – 375 kW (510 PS; 503 bhp) 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 63 AMG 4MATIC; 6,208 cc (378.8 cu in) V8 petrol
  • Van – 299 kW (407 PS; 401 bhp) 2021 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana; 6,551 cc (399.8 cu in) V8 petrol
  • Heavy truck – non-hybrid 589 kW (801 PS; 790 bhp) Shacman X6000; 16.6 L (1,013.0 cu in) V8 diesel

Highest specific power (power-to-weight ratio)

  • Naturally aspirated (limited production) – 0.91 kW/kg (1.22 hp/kg) – 2007 Caparo T1 – 429 kW (583 PS; 575 hp) and 470 kg (1,036 lb)
  • Forced-induction (limited production) – 1.04 kW/kg (1.4 hp/kg) – 2020 SSC Tuatara – 1,305 kW (1,774 PS; 1,750 hp) and 1,247 kg (2,749 lb)

Highest specific engine output (power/unit displacement)

  • Petrol (naturally aspirated) piston engine – 124.3 kW (169.0 PS; 166.7 hp) per litre – 2008 Ariel Atom 500 373 kW (507 PS; 500 hp) 3.0 L V8
  • Petrol (forced-induction) piston engine – 263.8 kW (358.7 PS; 353.8 hp) per litre – 2022 Mercedes-AMG One 422 kW (574 PS; 566 hp) 1,600 cc (97.6 cu in) turbocharged V6
  • Biofuel piston engine – 232.4 kW (316.0 PS; 311.7 hp) per litre – 2020 Koenigsegg Jesko 1,177 kW (1,600 PS; 1,578 hp) 5,065 cc (309.1 cu in) twin-turbocharged V8 on E85 fuel
  • Diesel engine (naturally aspirated) – 33.4 kW (45.4 PS; 44.8 hp) per litre – 1993 Mercedes E 300 diesel 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp) DIN 2.996 L OM606 I6
  • Diesel engine (forced-induction) – 100 kW (136.0 PS; 134.1 hp) per litre – 2020 BMW Alpina D5 S 3.0 L I6 triturbo 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp)
  • Pistonless rotary engine (naturally aspirated) – 141.5 kW (192.4 PS; 189.8 hp) per litre – Mazda RX-8 Renesis 184 kW (250 PS; 247 hp) JIS 1.3 L
  • Pistonless rotary engine (forced-induction) – 158.5 kW (215.5 PS; 212.6 hp) per litre – Mazda RX-7 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) JIS 1.3 L

Highest power by cylinder count (Production Cars)

  • Two-cylinder – 1.0 litre (58.8 cu in) – 77 kW (104 hp; 105 PS) 145 N⋅m (107 lb⋅ft) – 2007 Fiat 500
  • Three-cylinder – 2.0 litres (121.3 cu in) – 447 kW (600 hp; 608 PS) 600 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft) – 2020 Koenigsegg Gemera
  • Four-cylinder – 2.0 litres (121.5 cu in) – 350 kW (469 hp; 476 PS) 545 N⋅m (402 lb⋅ft) – 2022 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance 4MATIC+
  • Five-cylinder – 2.5 litres (151.3 cu in) – 368 kW (493 hp; 500 PS) 581 N⋅m (429 lb⋅ft) – 2022 KTM X-Bow GT-XR
  • Six-cylinder – 3.8 litres (231.8 cu in) – 530 kW (710 hp; 720 PS) 780 N⋅m (575 lb⋅ft) – 2020 Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign
  • Eight-cylinder – 6.6 litres (402.8 cu in) – 1,355 kW (1,817 hp; 1,842 PS) 1,617 N⋅m (1,193 lb⋅ft) – 2020 Hennessey Venom F5
  • Ten-cylinder – 8.4 litres (511.5 cu in) – 481 kW (645 hp; 654 PS) 813 N⋅m (600 lb⋅ft) – 2015 Dodge Viper
  • Twelve-cylinder – 6.5 litres (396.4 cu in) – 746 kW (1,000 hp; 1,014 PS) 740 N⋅m (546 lb⋅ft) – 2021 Aston Martin Valkyrie
  • Sixteen-cylinder – 8.0 litres (487.8 cu in) – 1,177 kW (1,578 hp; 1,600 PS) 1,600 N⋅m (1,180 lb⋅ft) – 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport

Torque

Highest torque by engine type

  • Forced induction petrol engine – 1,818 N⋅m (1,341 lbf⋅ft) – 2020 SSC Tuatara, 5,900 cc (360.0 cu in) V8
  • Naturally aspirated petrol engine – 813 N⋅m (600 lbf⋅ft) – 2013-2017 Dodge Viper, 8,390 cc (512.0 cu in) V10
  • Forced induction diesel engine – 1,627 N⋅m (1,200 lb⋅ft) – 2022 (2023 MY) Ford Super Duty, 6,653 cc (406.0 cu in) V8
  • Naturally aspirated diesel engine – 488 N⋅m (360 lbf⋅ft) – 1988–94 Ford F-250/350 IDI diesel, 7,276 cc (444.0 cu in) V8
  • Electric motor – 2,360 N⋅m (1,741 lbf⋅ft) – 2021 Rimac Nevera
  • Hybrid engine – 3,500 N⋅m (2,600 lbf⋅ft) – Koenigsegg Gemera

Highest torque by body style

  • Car – 3,500 N⋅m (2,581 lbf⋅ft) – 2020 Koenigsegg Gemera, hybrid 3-cylinder + 4 electric motors,
  • Pickup truck – 1,627 N⋅m (1,200 lb⋅ft) – 2022 (2023 MY) Ford Super Duty, 6,653 cc (406.0 cu in) V8
  • SUV – 1,000 N⋅m (738 lbf⋅ft) – Audi Q7 V12 TDI, 6,000 cc (366.1 cu in) V12 diesel
  • Van – 712 N⋅m (525 lbf⋅ft) – 2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana, 6,599 cc (402.7 cu in) V8 diesel

Highest specific torque (torque/unit displacement)

The mean effective pressure (MEP) is a useful comparison tool, giving the average cylinder pressure exerted on the piston.

  • Petrol engine (naturally aspirated) – MEP 1.67 MPa (16.7 bar), 132.6 N⋅m (98 lbf⋅ft) per litre – 2019 BAC Mono R 330 N⋅m (243 lbf⋅ft)
  • Petrol engine (forced-induction) – MEP 3.51 MPa (35.1 bar), 279.3 N⋅m (206 lbf⋅ft) per litre – 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ440 MR 558.6 N⋅m (412 lbf⋅ft)
  • Petrol engine (naturally aspirated pistonless rotary engine) – MEP 2.15 MPa (21.5 bar), 170.8 N⋅m (126.0 lbf⋅ft) per litre – 2005 Mazda RX-8 222 N⋅m (164 lbf⋅ft)
  • Petrol engine (forced-induction pistonless rotary engine) – MEP 3.03 MPa (30.3 bar), 241.38 N⋅m (178.0 lbf⋅ft) per litre – Mazda RX-7 turbo 313.8 N⋅m (231 lbf⋅ft)
  • Diesel engine (naturally aspirated) – MEP 903 kPa (9.03 bar), 71.88 N⋅m (53 lbf⋅ft) per litre – 1999 Nissan AD Van (Y11) 157 N⋅m (116 lbf⋅ft) 2.184 L Nissan YD
  • Diesel engine (forced-induction) – MEP 3.47 MPa (34.7 bar), 276 N⋅m (204 lbf⋅ft) per litre – 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300d 550 N⋅m (406 lbf⋅ft) 1.992 L OM654 D 20 R SCR

Fuel economy

Most economical

The following are all vehicles once certified for sale in the United States. Some vehicles from other countries have better fuel economy. Figures (showed in miles per US gallon units) are based on laboratory estimates, not consumer data.

  • All-diesel production vehicle – 1984 Nissan Sentra with 41 combined / 37 city / 46 highway.
  • All-petrol production vehicle – 1986 Chevrolet Sprint ER with 48 combined / 44 city / 53 highway
  • All natural gas production vehicle – 2012 Honda Civic GX with 31 combined / 27 city / 38 highway
  • E85 production vehicle – 2013 Ford Focus SFE FWD FFV with 22 combined / 19 city / 27 highway
  • Production electric hybrid – 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid (Ioniq Blue) with 59 combined / 58 city / 60 highway
  • Production plug-in electric hybrid – 2017/2023 Toyota Prius Prime with 133 combined MPGe (EV mode) and 54 MPG combined city/highway (petrol)
  • Production all-electric vehicle – 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus RWD with 142 combined / 150 city / 133 highway MPGe

The following are as sold in Europe:

  • Volkswagen XL1, diesel-electric PHEV, 0.9 L/100 km (310 mpg‑imp; 260 mpg‑US) on the New European Driving Cycle

Fuel capacity

All below amounts are total capacities for fuel tanks, (lithium based) batteries and other energy storage devices, not usable/net capacity.

  • Diesel off-road van - Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series Troopcarrier, 180 L
  • Diesel SUV - Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, 150 L (33 imp gal; 40 US gal)
  • Half-ton pickup truck - Toyota Tundra, 144 L (38 US gal)
  • EV - GMC Hummer EV Edition 1, 246.8 kWh
  • PHEV - Li Auto L7 or L9, 44.5 kWh
  • Smallest EV - Smart fortwo coupe, 17.6 kWh
  • Smallest PHEV - BMW i3, 9 L

Price

  • Most expensive (production) – US$3,260,000 – Bugatti Chiron Sport
  • Least expensive (production) – US$125 (equivalent to $2,275 in 2023) official general inflation – 1922 Briggs & Stratton Flyer
  • Most expensive (auction) – US$143,000,000 1957 Uhlenhaut Coupé
  • Most expensive (private sale) – US$70,000,000 (£52,000,000 at June 2018 exchange rates) 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO (2018)
  • Most expensive (concept car) – US$8,000,000 2005 Maybach Exelero
Giuseppe Zanotti Luxury Sneakers

Performance

Acceleration

  • Quickest 0 to 97 km/h (0 to 60 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 1.74 seconds – Rimac Nevera
  • Quickest 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 1.81 seconds – Rimac Nevera
  • Quickest 0 to 161 km/h (0 to 100 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 3.21 seconds – Rimac Nevera
  • Quickest 0 to 200 km/h (0 to 124 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 4.42 seconds – Rimac Nevera
  • Quickest 0 to 300 km/h (0 to 186 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 9.22 seconds – Rimac Nevera
  • Quickest 0 to 400 km/h (0 to 249 mph) with 1 foot rollout – 20.68 seconds – Koenigsegg Regera (with non-standard Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres)

Top speed

  • Highest top speed (forced induction petrol engine) – Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ – 490.48 km/h (304.77 mph)
  • Highest top speed (naturally aspirated engine) – McLaren F1 – 355–386 km/h (221–240 mph)
  • Highest top speed (forced induction diesel engine) – BMW Alpina D5 S – 286 km/h (178 mph)
  • Highest top speed (electric production vehicle) – Rimac Nevera – 415 km/h (258 mph)
  • Highest top speed (unibody SUV) – Lamborghini Urus SE – 312 km/h (194 mph)
  • Highest top speed (production half-ton pickup truck) – Dodge Ram SRT-10 – 248.784 km/h (154.587 mph)
  • Highest top speed (current production half-ton pickup truck) – Ram 1500 TRX – 190 km/h (118 mph)

Highest rpm redline

  • Internal combustion piston-engined production car – Gordon Murray T.50 – 12,100 rpm
  • Internal combustion Wankel rotary-engined production car – Mazda RX-8 – 9,000 rpm
  • Electric production vehicle – Zeekr 001 FR – 20,620 rpm

Sales

Best-selling models
  • Best-selling vehicle nameplate – Toyota Corolla (more than 50,000,000 sold in 12 generations since 1966)
  • Best-selling single model – Volkswagen Beetle (21,529,464 of the same basic design sold worldwide between 1938 and 2003)
  • Best single-year sales – 1.36 million – 2005 Toyota Corolla
  • Best single-month sales – 126,905 – July 2005 Ford F-Series

Firsts

Mostly full-production vehicles are listed here. Many were preceded by racing-only cars. This list mainly includes developments that led to widespread adoption across the automotive industry.

Industry

  • First Self-Propelled Automobile - 1770 Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot's "Fardier à vapeur"
  • First fully functioning automobile – 1885 Benz Patent-Motorwagen
  • First production automobile – 1888 Benz Patent-Motorwagen
  • First automotive proving ground – 1915 Dodge Brothers Test Track, Hamtramck, Michigan
  • First auto company technical institute – 1919 General Motors Institute (now Kettering University)

Engine types

  • Straight engines
    • First production straight-twin engine – 1895 Panhard et Levassor and 1898 Decauville Voiturelle
    • First production straight-three engine – 1953 DKW F91 and 1956 Saab 93
    • First production straight-four engine – 1908 Ford Model T
    • First production Straight-five engine – 1974 Mercedes-Benz W115 300D
    • First straight-six engine – 1903 Napier
    • First production straight-eight engine – 1918 Isotta Fraschini
  • V engines
    • First production V2 engine – 1889 Daimler steel-wheel car
    • First production V4 engine – 1922 Lancia Lambda
    • First production V6 engine – 1911 Delahaye Type 44
    • First V8 engine – 1904 Marmon
    • First production V8 engine – 1910 De Dion-Bouton CJ
    • First V10 engine – 1987 Lamborghini P140
    • First production V10 engine – 1991 Dodge Viper
    • First production V12 engine – 1915 Packard Twin-Six, the 1915 National V12 engine, and the 1917 Weidely Pathfinder
    • First V16 engine – 1929 Maserati Tipo V4
    • First production V16 engine – 1930 Cadillac V-16
  • Flat engines
    • First production flat-twin engine – 1900 Lanchester 8 hp Phaeton
    • First flat-four engine – 1900 Benz 20 hp racing car
    • First production flat-four engine – 1901 Wilson-Pilcher
    • First flat-six engine – 1904 Wilson-Pilcher
    • First production flat-six engine – 1948 Tucker 48
    • First flat-eight engine – 1962 Porsche 804 Formula One car
    • First flat-twelve engine – 1964 Honda RA271 Formula One car
    • First production flat-twelve engine – 1973 – Ferrari 365 GT4 BB
  • W engines
    • First production W engine – 2001 Volkswagen Passat W8
    • First production W12 engine – 2001 Audi A8 W12
    • First production W16 engine – 2005 – Bugatti Veyron

Engine technologies

Engine configuration and other miscellaneous fundamental construction details
  • First engine with removable cylinder head – 1889 Bernardi
  • First square engine – 1900 Georges Richard 3 1/2HP
  • First variable displacement engine – 1905 Sturtevant 38/45 six
  • First counterbalanced crankshaft – 1908 Mercer Type 35
  • First aluminum engine block – 1922 Lancia Lambda
  • First split-plane crankshaft – 1922 (for the 1923 model year) Cadillac V8 engine
  • First crankcase ventilation system – 1925 (for the 1926 model year) Cadillac V8 engine
  • First aluminum cylinder head – 1928 Fiat
  • First diesel engined production car – 1935 Citroen Rosalie
  • First gas turbine car – 1950 Rover
  • First functional fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) – 1966 GM/Chevrolet Electrovan
  • First production fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) – 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe FCEV and 2002 Honda FCX
  • First Miller cycle engine – 1996 Mazda Millenia
  • First Atkinson cycle engine – 1997 Toyota Prius
  • First Hydrogen vehicle – 2005 BMW Hydrogen 7 (Germany)
Wankel engines
  • First Wankel engine – 1964 NSU Spider
  • First front-wheel-drive car with Wankel engine – 1966 NSU Ro 80
  • First 2-rotor Wankel engine – 1966 NSU Ro 80
  • First 3-rotor Wankel engine – 1969 Mercedes C111
  • First 4-rotor Wankel engine – 1970 Mercedes C111
  • First turbocharged Wankel engine – 1982 Mazda Luce and Cosmo
Valvetrain
  • First overhead valve (OHV) engine – 1889 Bernardi
  • First overhead camshaft (OHC) engine – 1903 Marr Auto Car
  • First sleeve valve – 1909 Daimler (developed functional system from 1903 Knight Engine design)
  • First double overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine – 1913 Peugeot
Multi-valve engines
  • First limited production 3-valve engine – 1912 Bugatti Type 18
  • First limited production 4-valve engine – 1913 Peugeot Grand Prix
  • First limited production 5-valve engine – 1921 Peugeot Grand Prix
  • First production 3-valve engine – 1924 Bugatti Type 35
  • First production 4-valve engine – 1971 Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600
  • First multi-valve turbocharged engine – 1981 Maserati Biturbo (AM452)
  • First 6-valve engine – 1985 Maserati Biturbo 2.0 L V6 36v 261 hp (prototype)
  • First production 5-valve engine – 1989 Mitsubishi Dangan ZZ
  • First 3-valve diesel engine – 1989 Citroën XM
  • First 4-valve diesel engine – 1993 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (OM604 engine)
Variable valve timing (VVT)
  • First Variable Valve Timing (VVT) engine – 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider 2.0 L
  • First electronic VVT – 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider (All models)
  • First cam-switching VVT – 1989 Honda Integra RSi/XSi B16A VTEC 1.6 L DOHC I4
  • First VVT passenger car diesel engine – 2010 Mitsubishi ASX 4N13 1.8 L DOHC I4

Internal combustion engine cooling

  • First water-cooled automobile engine – 1901 Mercedes 35 hp
  • First air-cooled automobile engine – 1902 Franklin
  • First production air-cooled V8 engine – 1934 Tatra 77
Aspiration
  • First supercharged car – 1921 Mercedes 6/25/40 hp
  • First twin-supercharged car – 1935 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900
  • First turbocharged car – 1961 (for the 1962 model year) Oldsmobile F-85 (Turbo Jetfire)
  • First application of a wastegate to regulate a turbocharger's boost – 1961 (for the 1962 model year) Oldsmobile F-85 (Turbo Jetfire)
  • First twincharged car – 1985 Lancia Delta S4 Stradale
  • First variable-geometry turbocharger – 1988 Honda Legend Wing Turbo
  • First variable-geometry turbocharger (diesel) – 1991 Fiat Croma
  • First twin-turbocharged car – 1981 Maserati Biturbo
  • First triple-turbocharged car – 2012 BMW M550d xDrive
  • First quad-turbocharged car – 1991 Bugatti EB110
Fuel systems
  • First carburetor – 1889 Bernardi
  • First carburetor air filter – 1889 Bernardi
  • First automatic choke – 1931 (for the 1932 model year) Oldsmobile
  • First four-barrel carburetor – 1940 (for the 1941 model year) Buick (Compound Carburetion)
Fuel injection (FI)
  • First FI engine – 1910 Adams-Farwell Diesel
  • First non-diesel FI engine – 1952 Goliath GP700 and Gutbrod
  • First gasoline direct injection engine – 1952 Goliath GP700 and Gutbrod
  • First Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) – 1957 Rambler Rebel (prototypes)
  • First limited production EFI – 1957 (for the 1958 model year) Chrysler 300D, DeSoto Adventurer, Dodge D-500 and Plymouth Fury
  • First full mass-production EFI – 1968 D-Jetronic on Volkswagen Type 3 and Type 4
  • First diesel direct injection engine – 1987 Fiat Croma Turbo D i.d.
  • First turbocharged diesel direct injection engine – 1987 Fiat Croma Turbo D i.d.
  • First electronic gasoline direct injection – 1996 Mitsubishi Galant/Legnum 4G93 GDI I4
  • First passenger car common rail diesel direct injection engine – 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 JTD
  • First turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine – 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero IO 4G93
Ignition systems
  • First contact breaker point ignition – 1910 Cadillac Model Thirty / Delco
  • First optional electronic ignition – 1963 General Motors / Delco
  • First standard electronic ignition – 1968 Fiat Dino 2.0 / Dino 206 GT (Magneti Marelli Dinoplex)
  • First distributor-less ignition – Citroën 2CV (???)
General miscellany
  • First California Ultra Low Emission Vehicle – M.Y. 1998 Honda Accord
  • First California Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle – M.Y. 2000 Honda Accord I4
  • First flex-fuel vehicle (bioethanol and gasoline) – 1908 Ford Model T

Electric vehicles

  • First practical electric car – 1881 Gustave Trouvé electric vehicle
  • First mass-produced electric car – 1995 Peugeot 106 Electric / Citroën Saxo Electrique

Hybrid vehicles

  • First gas-electric hybrid – 1899 Lohner–Porsche Mixte
  • First modern hybrid car – 1904 Auto-Mixte (Belgium)
  • First mass-produced hybrid car – 1997 Toyota Prius
  • First hybrid bus – 1997 Hino
  • First hybrid SUV – 1997 Toyota RAV4 EV
  • First all-wheel drive hybrid – 2003 (for the 2004 model year) Ford Escape Hybrid
  • First hybrid luxury car – 2004 (for the 2005 Japanese model year) Lexus RX 400h (introduced January 2004)
  • First mild hybrid pickup truck – 2004 (for the 2005 model year) Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Hybrid
  • First full hybrid pickup truck – 2008 (for the 2009 model year) Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Hybrid
  • First hybrid heavy truck – 2018 Sisu Polar Hybrid
  • First 4-fuel hybrid – 2010 Monte Carlo Automobile Quadrifuel (powered with bio-ethanol, hydromethane, gasoline and LPG)

Plug-in electric vehicles

  • First all-electric car with lithium-ion battery – 1998 Nissan Altra
  • First series production plug-in hybrid – 1997 Audi Duo
  • First series production all-electric car available in global markets – 2011 Nissan Leaf
  • First series production plug-in hybrid car available in global markets – 2011 Chevrolet Volt/Opel Ampera
  • First series production all-electric commercial van – 1989 Citroën C15 Electrique
  • First series production all-electric long range highway capable car – 2009 Tesla Roadster
  • First series production all-electric luxury car – 2012 Tesla Model S
  • First series production plug-in SUV – 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
  • First series production all-electric SUV – 2016 Tesla Model X

Body

  • First tricar – 1885 Benz Patent Motorwagen
  • First motorized truck – October 1896 Daimler
  • First sedan/saloon – 1900 Renault Voiturette
  • First production station wagon (estate) – 1908 Ford Model T
  • First production closed-body car – 1910 Cadillac Model Thirty
  • First cyclecar – 1910 GN/1910 Bédélia
  • First aerodynamic design – 1914 A.L.F.A. 40/60 HP Aerodinamica
  • First production aerodynamic design – 1921 Rumpler Tropfenwagen
  • First monocoque – 1922 Lancia Lambda
  • First shatter-resistant windshield glass – 1925 (for the 1926 model year) Cadillac
  • First minivan – 1932 Stout Scarab
  • First all-aluminium body – 1933 Riley Nine Kestrel
  • First coupé convertible – 1934 Peugeot 401 D Eclipse
  • First Pickup / Utility vehicle (Ute) – 1934 Ford Coupé utility
  • First retractable hardtop roof – 1934 Pourtout Lancia Belna Eclipse (coachbuilt)
  • First production retractable hardtop roof – 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner
  • First flush mounted gas door – 1936 Cord 810
  • First fully boxed frame – 1938 ERA R4D (racing car)
  • First fiberglass body – 1946 Stout Scarab Experimental (also first monocoque fiberglass body)
  • First safety windshield – 1947 (for the 1948 model year) Tucker (popout safety glass)
  • First hardtop – 1948 (for the 1949 model year) Cadillac Coupe de Ville, Buick Roadmaster Riviera and Oldsmobile 98 Holiday
  • First production minivan – 1946 Chenard et Walcker CHV
  • First limited production fiberglass body – 1951 (for the 1952 model year) Woodill Wildfire
  • First production fiberglass body – 1952 (for the 1953 model year) Chevrolet Corvette
  • First hatchback – 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4
  • First body made of recycled material – 1954 Trabant P70
  • First 4-door hardtop – 1955 (middle of the model year) Buick Century Riviera and Special Riviera and Oldsmobile 98 Holiday and 88 Holiday
  • First hardtop station wagon – 1955 (for the 1956 model year) Rambler Six and V8
  • First production fiberglass monocoque – 1956 Berkeley SA322
  • First Mini MPV – 1956 Fiat 600 Multipla
  • First fiberglass bodied convertible – 1952 (for the 1953 model year) Chevrolet Corvette
  • First fiberglass bodied 4-door Sedan – 1970 Anadol A2
  • First fiberglass bodied Station wagon / Estate car – 1973 Anadol SV-1600
  • First factory clear-coat paint job – 1977 Lincoln Versailles
  • First active aerodynamics - 1984 Alfa Romeo 90
  • First electric boot spoiler – 1986 Lancia Thema 8.32
  • First all-aluminium space frame – 1990 Honda NSX
  • First carbon fibre monocoque – 1993 McLaren F1
  • First stress-bearing engine acting like a structural member – 1995 Ferrari F50
  • First Crossover – 1979 AMC Eagle
  • First single-piece carbon fibre monocoque – 2003 Invicta S1
  • First fully boxed frame Pickup – 1948 Land Rover Series 1

Transmission

    • First belt-driven automobile – 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen
    • First chain-driven automobile – 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen and 1897 Daimler Phoenix
    • First shaft-driven automobile – 1908 Mercedes Simplex 35 hp
  • Manual transmissions
    • First non-synchronous manual transmission (sliding-mesh design) – 1891 Panhard et Levassor
    • First non-synchronous manual transmission (constant-mesh design) – 1928–1929 Cadillac
    • First reverse gear – 1902 FIAT 8/16 HP
    • First synchronized transmission – 1924 Isotta Fraschini 8A
    • First overdrive – 1933 (for the 1934 model year) Chrysler Airflow
    • First modern cone-synchromesh (on all forward gears) transmission – 1952 Porsche 356
    • First 3-speed manual – 1894 Bernardi 3.5 HP
    • First 4-speed manual – 1901 Ceirano 5 HP
    • First 5-speed manual – 1948 Lancia Ardea Mk3
    • First 6-speed manual – 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale
    • First 7-speed manual – 2011 Porsche 911 (991)
    • First 8-speed manual – 1931 Maybach DS8
    • First clutchless manual – 1912 Bollée Type F Torpedo
    • First production clutchless manual – 1935 REO Self-Shifter, 1937 Oldsmobile 4-speed Automatic Safety Transmission, and 1938–1939 Buick Special 4-speed Self-shifter.
    • First electronically controlled clutchless manual – 1991 Ferrari Mondial T Valeo
    • First sequential manual – 1946 Porsche Type 360 Cisitalia.
    • First pre-selector gearbox – 1929 Armstrong Siddeley models, 1929 Maybach models, and 1930 Daimler Double-Six
    • First centrifugal clutch – 1936 Armstrong Siddeley
  • Automatic transmissions
    • First automatic transmission – 1939 Oldsmobile (Hydra-Matic; also the first 4-speed automatic)
    • First torque converter automatic – 1948 (middle of model year) Buick Roadmaster (Dynaflow)
    • First non-planetary automatic – 1968 Honda (Hondamatic)
    • First 2-speed automatic – 1947 GM Dynaflow 1948 model year Buick Roadmaster
    • First 3-speed automatic – 1950 Borg Warner Automatic Drive Studebaker Land Cruiser
    • First 4-speed automatic – 1939 Oldsmobile (Hydra-Matic; also the first automatic)
    • First 5-speed automatic – 1989 Nissan Cedric, Nissan Cefiro, Nissan Gloria, Nissan Skyline, Nissan Laurel, (RE5R01A, Jatco/Nissan transmission)
    • First 6-speed automatic – 2001 BMW 7 Series (E65) (ZF 6HP26)
    • First 7-speed automatic – 2003 Mercedes-Benz (7G-Tronic)
    • First 8-speed automatic – 2006 Lexus LS 460
    • First 9-speed automatic – 2013 Range Rover Evoque
    • First 10-speed automatic – 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Ford F-150
  • First self-locking differential – 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Super Sport
  • First limited slip differential – 1955 (for the 1956 model year) Studebaker
    • Note: In 1939, the Volkswagen Type 82 used a cam and pawl type differential which had a slip-limiting effect.)
  • First continuously variable transmission (CVT) – 1958 DAF 600 A-Type
  • First electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT) – 1987 Subaru Justy E-CVT
  • First active differential – 1986 Porsche 959 PSK (limited production of 200 vehicles)
  • First toroidal continuously variable transmission – 1999 Nissan Cedric and Nissan Gloria
  • First manumatic (automatic transmission with manual control of gear selection) – 1990 Porsche 911 Tiptronic
  • First electronically controlled automated manual transmission – 1985 Isuzu Aska NAVi5
  • First modern single-clutch automated manual transmission – 1996 BMW E36 M3 SMG
  • First dual-clutch transmission – 2003 Volkswagen Golf Mk4 R32 (Direct-Shift Gearbox)
  • First road car with paddle-shifters – 1997 Ferrari 355 F1

Layout

  • First rear-engined car – 1886 Benz Patent Motorwagen
  • First rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive car – 1934 Tatra 77
  • First rear-engine, four-wheel-drive car – 1940 Volkswagen Kübelwagen
  • First front-engine, rear-wheel-drive car – 1895 Panhard et Levassor
  • First front-engine, front-wheel-drive car – 1929 Cord L-29
  • First front-engine, four-wheel-drive car – 1903 Spyker 60 HP
  • First front-engined transaxle car – 1898 De Dion-Bouton
  • First four-wheel-drive car – 1903 Spyker 60 HP
  • First mid-engined car – 1921 Rumpler Tropfenwagen
  • First front-wheel-drive car – 1924 Tracta (Gregoire-Tracta)
  • First mass-produced transverse front-wheel-drive car – 1931 DKW F1
  • First front mid-engine, front-wheel-drive car – 1934 Citroën Traction Avant
  • First transverse front-wheel-drive I6 car – 1970 Austin Kimberley and Austin Tasman
  • First mass-produced four-wheel-drive car – 1955 GAZ M72, 4677 produced
  • First and only production vehicles manufactured to a four-seater, rear mid-engined, full-convertible design – 1982 Ferrari Mondial
  • First transverse four-wheel-drive car – 1983 Fiat Panda 4x4
  • First mid-engined, four-wheel-drive car – 1983 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (homologation special, 200 road cars produced for Group B regulations.)
  • First transverse front-wheel-drive I5 car – 1991 Volvo 850

Suspension

  • First front independent suspension – 1898 Decauville
  • First torsion bar suspension – 1921 Leyland
  • First hydraulic shock absorbers – 1922 Lancia Lambda
  • First coil spring / shock absorber suspension – 1922 Lancia Lambda
  • First fully independent suspension – 1931 Alfa Romeo 8C
  • First air suspension – 1946 Stout Scarab Experimental
  • First MacPherson strut suspension – 1949 Ford Vedette
  • First self-levelling suspension – 1954 Citroën Traction Avant 15/6 "H"
  • First anti-roll bars – 1955 Citroën DS (front and rear)
  • First self-levelling suspension on all four wheels – 1955 Citroën DS
  • First production air suspension – 1956 (for the 1957 model year) Cadillac Eldorado Brougham (standard)
  • First Chapman strut suspension – 1958 Lotus Elite
  • First electronic-adjustable suspension dampers – 1981 Nissan Skyline
  • First electronically controlled semi-active suspension – 1983 Toyota Soarer (Japan-market model Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension)
  • First active air suspension – 1984 Mitsubishi Galant CECS (Chassis Electronic Control Systems)
  • First fully active suspension without anti-roll bars: 1989 on Toyota Celica: Toyota Active Control Suspension
  • First semi-active hydraulic suspension – 1990 Citroën XM (Hydractive)
  • First semi-active suspension scanning the road ahead (sonar) – 1985 Nissan Cedric/Nissan Gloria/Nissan Laurel DUET-SS Super Sonic Suspension
  • First active anti-roll bars – 1994 Citroën Xantia Activa (Systeme Citroën de Contrôle Actif du Roulis)
  • First active suspension optically scanning the road ahead – 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) (MAGIC BODY CONTROL with ROAD SURFACE SCAN)

Brakes

  • First four-wheel brakes – 1910 Isotta Fraschini
  • First power brakes – 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6 (mechanically assisted and 4-wheel)
  • First hydraulic power brakes – 1921 Duesenberg Model A (4-wheel)
  • First vacuum-assist power brakes – 1927 (for the 1928 model year) Pierce-Arrow
  • First inboard drum brakes – 1937 Lancia Aprilia
  • First disc brakes – 1948 (for the 1949 model year) Chrysler Crown Imperial (4-wheel and standard)
  • First inboard disc brakes – 1955 Citroën DS19
  • First diagonally split, dual brake circuits – 1962 Saab 95/96
  • First antilock braking system – 1966 Jensen FF (Dunlop Maxaret system, previously used in aviation)
  • First electrical & electronic antilock braking system – 1969 (for the 1970 model year) Lincoln Continental Mark III (standard)
  • First 4-wheel electrical & electronic antilock braking system – 1970 (for the 1971 model year) Imperial
  • First asbestos-free brake pads – 1983 Saab Automobile
  • First regenerative brakes – 1996 GM EV1 (leased, not sold)
  • First electro-hydraulic brakes – 2001 Toyota Prius
  • First electric parking brake – 2002 BMW E65/E66

Driver aids

  • First steering wheel – 1894 Panhard
  • First speedometer – 1901 Oldsmobile
  • First windscreen wiper – 1903 Mary Anderson (inventor)
  • First electromechanical vehicle horn – 1908 Klaxon
  • First tilt-away steering wheel – 1912 Peerless
  • First standard rear-view mirror – 1912 Marmon
  • First adjustable steering column – 1913 Lancia Theta
  • First dash-mounted fuel gauge – 1914 Studebaker
  • First power windscreen wiper – 1916 Willys-Knight
  • First turn signals – 1919 Phianna
  • First electric windscreen wiper – 1922 William M. Folberth (inventor)
  • First windscreen defogger – 1927 (for the 1928 model year) Studebaker
  • First horn ringed steering wheel – 1935 (for the 1936 model year) Cord 810
  • First windscreen washer – 1936 (for the 1937 model year) Studebaker
  • First rear window defogger – 1947 (for the 1948 model year) Cadillac
  • First power steering – 1950 (for the 1951 model year) Chrysler Imperial
  • First cruise control – 1956 (for the 1957 model year) Imperial
  • First trip computer – 1958 Saab GT750
  • First adjustable control pedals – 1964 Marcos GT
  • First tilt/telescope steering wheel – 1964 (for the 1965 model year) Cadillac
  • First traction control system – 1970 (for the 1971 model year) full-size Buick (MaxTrac)
  • First LED display – 1976 Aston Martin Lagonda instrument cluster
  • First original-equipment (OEM) Citizens Band radio – 1976 (for the 1977 model year) Lincoln, Cadillac, Buick (except Skyhawk), Oldsmobile (except Omega and Starfire) and Pontiac (except Ventura, Sunbird and Astre)
  • First electronic trip computer – 1978 (in middle of model year) Cadillac Seville
  • First navigation system – August 1981 Honda Accord (analog, dealer-installed)
  • First parking sensor – 1982 Toyota Corona
  • First built-in cup holder – 1983 Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager
  • First Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers – 1984 Nissan 200SX and Silvia
  • First CRT display – 1984 Buick Riviera computer controlled instrument cluster
  • First electronic four-wheel steering – 1985 Nissan Skyline HICAS
  • First automotive head-up display (auto-HUD) – 1987 (for the 1988 model year) Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme
  • First drive-by-wire throttle – 1988 BMW 750iL
  • First mechanical four-wheel steering – 1988 Honda Prelude 4WS
  • First electrochromic rear-view mirror – 1988 Nissan Cedric/Gloria/Cima
  • First digital navigation system – 1990 Acura Legend
  • First original-equipment built-in GPS navigation system – 1990 Mazda Eunos Cosmo Type-E CCS (Japan Only)
  • First Backup camera – 1991 Toyota Soarer Limited (Japan Only)
  • First dynamic stability control system/Electronic Stability Programme/Vehicle Stability Control – 1995 BMW 7 Series (E38)-(DSC III), Mercedes-Benz S 600 Coupé-(ESP), and Toyota Crown Majesta-(VSC)
  • First adaptive cruise control – 1995 (for 1996 model year) Mitsubishi Diamante (like the later Toyota Celsior system, this LIDAR did not apply brakes, only throttle&shifting)
  • First backup sensors – 1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  • First telematics assist system – 1996 (for the 1997 model year) Cadillac Seville (OnStar) and Lincoln Continental (Motorola RESCU)
  • First minivans and SUVs with backup sensors – 1999 Ford Windstar and Ford Explorer/Lincoln Navigator
  • First night vision – 1999 (for the 2000 model year) Cadillac Deville
  • First lane-departure warning system (LDWS) – 2001 Nissan Cima
  • First navigation system with voice controls – 2002 Infiniti Q45
  • First backup camera in North American market – 2002 Infiniti Q45
  • First radar Collision avoidance system (no autonomous braking) – 2003 Toyota Harrier-Pre-Collision System PCS
  • First automatic/automated self-parking system – 2003 Toyota Prius IPAS
  • First Blind Spot Intervention System – 2005 Volvo S80
  • First Around View Monitor (AVM) – 2007 Infiniti EX35
  • First Driver drowsiness detection – 2007 on the Volvo S80-Driver Alert Control
  • First driver eyelid monitoring system – 2008 on the Toyota Crown-Driver Monitoring System
  • First Synchronized down shift rev-matching system – 2009 Nissan 370Z and Fairlady Z
  • First active pedestrian avoidance with steering correction – 2013 on Lexus LS (XF40) (Japan only)

Passive restraint

  • First safety padding – 1936 (for the 1937 model year) Chrysler
  • First seat belts – 1947 (for the 1948 model year) Tucker
  • First padded dash – 1947 (for the 1948 model year) Tucker
  • First rear seat belts – 1954 (for the 1955 model year) Ford
  • First standard seat belts – 1958 Saab GT 750
  • First shoulder belts – 1959 Volvo PV444/544
  • First standard shoulder belts – 1959 Volvo 122

Active restraint

  • First airbags – 1973 (for the 1974 model year) full-size Cadillac, Buick and Oldsmobile (Air Cushion Restraint System)
  • First standard dual frontal airbags – 1987 Porsche 944
  • First rear-seat frontal airbag – 1993 Nissan President
  • First side torso airbags – 1994 (for the 1995 model year) Volvo 850
  • First knee airbag – 1996 Kia Sportage
  • First six-airbag system – 1997 Audi A8: 1 side airbag in every door + 2 front airbags.
  • First side head airbags – 1997 BMW 7 Series (E38)
  • First rear window curtain airbag – 2008 Toyota iQ
  • First rear seat centre airbag – 2009 Toyota
  • First seatbelt airbags – 2011 Ford Explorer and Lexus LFA
  • First front center airbag – 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia
  • First rear seat airbag – 2021 Mercedes Benz S Class

Tires

  • First use of pneumatic tires – 1895 Peugeot L'Eclair (Michelin)
  • First standard pneumatic tires – 1896 Bollée Voiturette
  • First radial-ply tires – 1946 Michelin "X" (Optional fitment on 1949 Peugeots, Citroën 11CV and Simca 8, standard on the 1950 Lancia Aurelia)
  • First self-repairing tires – 1950 Goodyear
  • First run flat tire – 1974 Mini 1275GT (Dunlop Denovo; optional)

Lighting

  • First electrical lighting – 1898 Columbia electric
  • First bright headlamps – 1899 Bleriot carbide generator
  • First standard lights – 1904 "Prest-O-Lite" acetylene
  • First standard electrical lights – 1908 Peerless
  • First integrated electrical and lighting system – 1912 Cadillac Model 1912 Delco
  • First "dipping" headlamps – 1915 Guide Lamp Company
  • First original-equipment (OEM) "dipping" headlamps – 1917 Cadillac
  • First stop or brake lights – 1919 Phianna
  • First dual-beam headlamp – 1924 Bilux
  • First directional headlamps – 1934 Tatra 77
  • First hidden headlamps – 1935 (for the 1936 model year) Cord 810 (hand cranked from dash)
  • First flush mounted taillights with the body – 1935 (for the 1936 model year) Cord 810
  • First fog lights – 1937 (for the 1938 model year) Cadillac
  • First power hidden headlamps – 1938 Buick Y-Job
  • First production power hidden headlamps – 1941 (for the 1942 model year) DeSoto (standard)
  • First auto-dimming headlamps – 1951 (for the 1952 model year) Cadillac and Oldsmobile (Autronic Eye)
  • First auto-on/off headlamps – 1959 (for the 1960 model year) Buick (Twilight Sentinel)
  • First headlamp wipers – 1970 Saab (95, 96, 99)
  • First AC HID (lowbeam only) lights – 1991 BMW 7 Series (E32)
  • First neon lights – 1994 (for the 1995 model year) Ford Explorer
  • First DC HID lights – 1996 (for the 1997 model year) Lincoln Mark VIII
  • First all-LED tail lights – 1998 Maserati 3200 GT
  • First lowbeam/highbeam HID headlamps (Bi-Xenon) – 1999 on Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  • First all-LED headlamps – 2007 Audi R8
  • First low beam, front position light and sidemarker LED headlights – 2008 Lexus LS600h
  • First continuously adaptive highbeam (HID) – 2009 on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212)
  • First headlamps with pedestrian highlighting/warning – in 2011 on Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C216)
  • First full-LED car + tail lights with automatic variable intensity control – 2013 on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222)
  • First laser headlights – 2014 Audi R8 LMX

Electrical system

  • First magneto – 1897 Lanchester Motor Company
  • First electric self-starter – Arnold (copy of the Benz Velo) before 1900.
  • First power door locks – 1914 Scripps-Booth
  • First twin-spark engine – 1914 Alfa Romeo Grand Prix
  • First electric power windows – 1938 Buick Y-Job (see "Other" for nonelectric production power windows)
  • First combination key and ignition switch – 1948 (for the 1949 model year) Chrysler
  • First 12 volt system – 1948 Lancia Ardea mk3
  • First alternator – 1959 (for the 1960 model year) Plymouth Valiant
  • First sealed battery – 1969 (for the 1970 model year) Pontiac "Freedom Battery"
  • First keyless entry system (by keypad) – 1980 for the 8th gen Ford Thunderbird, 5th gen Mercury Cougar, and Lincoln Continental Mk VI, and Town Car
  • First multiplexing wiring – 1986 (for the 1987 model year) Cadillac Allanté & Chrysler C-Body [1988]
  • First integrated car systems control – 1987 Toyota Soarer (Electro Multi Vision)

Climate control

  • First exhaust system heat – 1917 (???)
  • First cooling system heat – 1926 (???) (Cadillac also lists heat as an option for $32 in the 1926 model year although it is not clear what the source is)
  • First automobile air conditioning – 1939 (for the 1940 model year) Packard
  • First automatic climate control – 1963 (for the 1964 model year) Cadillac
  • First heated seats – 1965 (for the 1966 model year) Cadillac
  • First digital climate control – 1975 Rolls-Royce Camargue
  • First electrically heated windshield – 1985 Ford Scorpio/Granada Mk. III and 1986 model year Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable
  • First ventilated seats – 1998 Saab 9-5
  • First cooled seats – 2000 Lincoln Navigator
  • First heated steering wheel – 2001 Audi A6 and BMW 7 Series

In-car entertainment

  • First radio – May 1922 Ford Model T (fitted to the passenger door by 18-year-old George Frost, president of the Lane High School Radio Club in Chicago)
  • First radio installed by a corporation – November 1922 Daimler (installed in a limousine by the Marconi-phone company)
  • First aftermarket radio – 1923 Springfield Body Corporation
  • First original-equipment (OEM) radio – 1929 (for the 1930 model year) Cadillac and LaSalle
  • First in-car phonograph – 1955 (for the 1956 model year) Chrysler (optional on all makes)
  • First FM radio – 1958 (for the 1959 model year) Lincoln
  • First stereo – 1964 (for the 1965 model year) full-size Chevrolet
  • First 8-track tape – 1965 (for the 1966 model year) Lincoln and Ford Thunderbird and Mustang
  • First Compact Cassette – 1977 (for the 1978 model year) Cadillac and Buick (except Skyhawk)
  • First steering wheel mounted audio controls – 1984 Nissan 300ZX AE
  • First compact disc – 1986 (for the 1987 model year) Lincoln Town Car
  • First active audio volume control – 1989 (for the 1990 model year) Chevrolet Corvette Bose/Delco Gold Series
  • First front auxiliary input (for portable devices) (OEM systems) – 1991 Mitsubishi 3000GT and Galant VR-4
  • First VCR – 1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette
  • First Bluetooth-capable audio system – 2003 Saab 9-3
  • First MP3-capable audio system – 2001 Mazda Protegé MP3
  • First karaoke – 2003 Geely BL
  • First 5.1 surround sound – 2004 Acura TL
  • First in-car iPod player integration – 2004 BMW
  • First active noise cancellation – 2005 Acura RL
  • First built-in USB port – 2006 Kia Rondo

Other

  • First anti-theft device – 1930 Ansaldo Tipo 22
  • First power windows – 1939 (for the 1940 model year) Packard 180 (hydro-electric)
  • First power seat – 1947 (for the 1948 model year) Cadillac, Buick and Oldsmobile (hydraulic)
  • First split folding rear seats – 1959 Auto Union (all makes)
  • First composite wheels – 1970 Citroën SM
  • First production car to achieve 200 mph (322 km/h) – 1987 Ruf CTR in April 1987
  • First standard composite wheels – 1989 Shelby CSX
  • First active exhaust – 1991 Mitsubishi 3000GT

Pre-war

  • Best-selling pre-war vehicle – Ford Model-T (15,000,000 sold between 1908 and 1928)
  • Least-expensive – US$125 (equivalent to $2,275 in 2023) – 1922 Briggs & Stratton Flyer
  • Least-expensive full-featured automobile – US$300 (equivalent to $5,163 in 2023) – 1926–27 (for the 1927 model year) Ford Model-T
  • Fastest pre-war stock production vehicle – Cord Automobile – 1937 supercharged 812 Beverly sedan 173 km/h (107.66 mph) – September 1937 at the Bonneville Salt Flats
  • Fastest pre-war limited production vehicle – Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 – 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 clocked to 211 km/h (131 mph) average at Brooklands Speedway (41 made)
  • Fastest pre-war vehicle – Railton Mobil Special – 2-SC Napier Lion V-12 – 595 km/h (369.740 mph) – Driver John Cobb on 23 August 1939 at the Bonneville Salt Flats
  • Longest pre-war production – 6,096 mm (240.0 in) – 1933–35 (for the 1934–35 model years) Cadillac V-16
  • Longest pre-war limited production – 6,400 mm (252.0 in) 1927–33 Bugatti Royale
  • Longest pre-war production wheelbase – 3,912 mm (154.0 in) – 1933–37 (for the 1934–37 model years) Cadillac V-16
  • Longest pre-war limited production wheelbase – 4,572 mm (180.0 in) 1927 Bugatti Royale Prototype
  • Longest pre-war Production convertible – 6,096 mm (240.0 in) (29 produced) – 1933–1935 (for the 1934–35 model years) Cadillac V-16
  • Longest pre-war Production coupe – 6,096 mm (240.0 in) (20 produced) – 1933–1935 (for the 1934–35 model years) Cadillac V-16
  • Longest pre-war Limited production convertible – 6,401 mm (252.0 in) – 1932 Bugatti Royale Weinberger
  • Longest pre-war Limited production coupe – 6,401 mm (252.0 in) – 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner
  • Widest pre-war – 2,100 mm (82.7 in) 1938–43 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150 (armoured)
  • Widest pre-war front track – 1,626 mm (64.0 in) – 1938–43 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150
  • Widest pre-war rear track – 1,676 mm (66.0 in) – 1938–43 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150
  • Tallest pre-war production car – 2,550 mm (100.4 in) – 1904–09 Fiat 60 HP
  • Heaviest pre-war curb weight – 4,800 kg (10,582 lb) – 1938–43 Mercedes-Benz 770 W150 (armoured)
  • Largest pre-war straight-6 – 9,120 cc (557 in3) – 1920-28 Reanault 40CV
  • Largest pre-war limited production straight-8 – 14,726 cc (899 in3) – 1927 Bugatti Royale
  • Largest pre-war V8 – 14,700 cc (897 in3) – 1910–12 De Dion-Bouton
  • Largest pre-war V12 – 13,514 cc (825 in3) – 1912 Pierce-Arrow
  • Largest pre-war V16 – 8,048 cc (491 in3) – 1930–33 (for the 1931–33 model years) Marmon Series 16

See also

  • List of largest machines (including land vehicles)
  • Units of measurement
    • International System of Units
    • United States customary units
    • Imperial units
  • Power
  • Torque
  • Mass

References


Text submitted to CC-BY-SA license. Source: List of automotive superlatives by Wikipedia (Historical)


 

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