Top 7 German Car Brands: A Must-Read For Car Enthusiasts
April 7, 2023
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German car brands have impacted the automotive industry significantly in terms of technology and design. With a great influence on producing superior cars, they have been at the forefront of automotive innovation for centuries. Here, we’ll look into the top 7 German car makers of all time and their contributions to the automotive world. Keep reading to learn more!
A Brief History of German Car Brands
Germany’s automotive legacy started when mechanical engineers Nikolaus Otto and Karl Benz invented the 4-stroke internal combustion engine in 1870. This invention helped Germany enter the automotive production business.
In 1901, about 900 cars were being produced every year. 15 years later, BWM, Audi AG, and Volkswagen entered the market, the most important development period of the German car industry. Small industries joined with bigger businesses. Audi was the product of the merger between Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer.
List Of The Top German Car Brands
Germany boasts a large share of the world’s most renowned car brands. From sleek sports cars to reliable family vehicles, German automakers are known for producing high-quality, stylish, and functional cars.
This section lists the top German car brands carrying the biggest names worldwide. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or an aspiring car owner, these brands offer something for everyone.
Volkswagen
Revenue in 2022: €279.2 billion
Volkswagen is a flagship brand of the Volkswagen Group. The German government established VW in 1937 to provide an affordable car for average drivers, calling it the “people’s car.”
Ferdinand Porsche designed the Beetle, which remained in production for several decades until 2018. The Golf and Polo are best-selling hatchbacks globally. They are popular family cars because they are economical, reliable, spacious, and modern.
Volkswagen provides many options for drivers, including Passat, Jetta, Arteon, Jetta GLI, Tiguan, Taos, and Atlas. Hot hatch fans can choose either the Golf or Golf GTI.
Mercedes-Benz
Revenue in 2022: €150.0 billion
Mercedes-Benz is a German luxury automobile brand founded by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler in 1926.
The Mercedes-Benz logo is a three-pointed star designed by Daimler’s sons, Paul and Adolf, in 1909. Each point represents the brand’s focus on land, sea, and air transportation. Also, the three-pointed star symbolises the brand’s dominance over all three modes of transportation.
In 2020, Mercedes-Benz sold 2.1 million cars and nearly 375,000 vans, earning revenue of €150.0 billion. This sales performance was outstanding compared to previous years, propelling the brand toward higher success.
Mercedes-Benz has produced many notable models, including the Mercedes Benz 600, the S-Class Hybrid, and the Sprinter. These vehicles remain popular among enthusiasts and consumers looking for luxury and reliability.
BMW
Revenue in 2022: €142.6 billion
A popular German car maker, BMW produces automobiles, motorcycles, engines, and bicycles. Founded in 1916, the company is headquartered in Munich, Germany. One of the BMW Group’s wholly-owned subsidiaries is Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, an exclusive manufacturer of luxury automobiles.
BMW AG is a renowned German automobile manufacturer for creating high-quality and distinctive whips. Their cars, motorbikes, power units, and bicycles have all been crafted with finesse by the head designer Adrian van Hooydonk.
BMW AG has been around for over 90 years. It started when factories produced bicycles, motorcycles, and automobile engines. This brand is also known for its Rolls-Royce trademark and MINI, created in 2001.
In the United States, BMW is known for its luxury cars, performance autos, and SUVs. Varieties include X1-X7, 2-Series up to 8-Series, Z4, M Models, i3, i4, and i8.
Audi
Revenue in 2022: €61.75 billion
Audi is a German company founded in 1909 with headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany. Audi’s logo links to its former company, August Horch. Four linked rings honour the 1932 merger between Audi, Horch, Wanderer, and DKW. This led to the formation of Auto Union UG.
In 1966, Volkswagen Group took over the then-fledgling Audi, a now-popular German vehicle manufacturer. Audi models are available in the United States, including A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8.
The Audi brand has maintained an international presence in nine countries due to its 11 production facilities. The vehicle’s generations are produced in Germany, India, Slovakia, Belgium, China, Hungary, Indonesia, Spain, and Mexico.
Audi offers excellent speed and cutting-edge design, particularly the A8 model. It is complemented by a product line of sedans, SUVs, and other small vehicles.
Volkswagen has held a 99.55% share of Audi since 1966. It was formerly known as Auto Union, owned by Daimler-Benz, making Audi a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.
Although Audi’s market share in 2000 was relatively small, its standing doubled in 2008. In 2012, Audi reported a 10% increase in sales, which went on for a decade.
Porsche
Revenue in 2022: €37.6 billion
Porsche has been a staple of the automotive industry since its founding in 1931. It is currently owned by the Volkswagen Group, with headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.
Porsche has long been a pioneer in advancing automotive technology, working to improve vehicle performance, safety, and eco-friendliness. Since then, the brand has been committed to producing innovations that benefit its vehicles and the whole industry.
Porsche is renowned as the most successful German sports race car, manufacturing over 30,000 vehicles. The iconic 911 model is one of the best cars with a rear engine and a boxer engine configuration.
Porsche has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation by introducing super sports cars like the 918 Spyder and the GT3 RS. These vehicles prove Porsche’s dedication to pushing boundaries and producing exceptional machines for enthusiasts worldwide.
Opel
Opel is a venerable, longstanding German automobile manufacturer founded in 1862 in Rüsselsheim am Main, Hesse, Germany. it was owned by General Motors from 1920 until 2017 and then passed to the PSA Group from 2017 until 2021. As such, Opel has become synonymous with exceptional quality and innovation within its sector.
Opel operates as a subsidiary of Stellantis, a light vans and passenger cars manufacturer. Stellantis was established in 2021 after the merger of the PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).
Opel produces a range of vehicles, including compact cars, mid-size cars, and SUVs. The company is known for its focus on engineering and technology, with many of its vehicles featuring advanced features and systems. Opel has a strong presence in motorsports. It has competed in events such as the World Rally Championship and the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters.
Alpina
Headquartered in Buchloe, Germany, Alpina is a car manufacturer known for its close cooperation with BMW. Established in 1965, Alpina has been manufacturing engines first by hand at the Alpina facility.
Alpina is owned by BMW and operates as an independent company focused on customising and improving BMW models. It is reputed for its engineering and quality craftsmanship, reflected in the vehicles it develops in collaboration with BMW.
Alpina is a highly acclaimed car manufacturer in the automotive sphere, renowned for pushing the limits of performance cars. Their unending drive to innovate has earned them global recognition.
Alpina brand has created several models, including the XD3 and XD4, based on the BMW X3 and X4. Both cars are enhanced with powerful engines and advanced suspension systems, providing drivers superior handling and performance.
These specially engineered creations boast cutting-edge technology and innovative design features. The dedication of the passionate team of experts ensures that every car produced reaches an unmatched level of performance.
FAQs
Why Is Germany Considered the Best Auto Manufacturer in the World?
In 2021, 40% of vehicles produced worldwide were manufactured in Europe, of which 23% came from Germany. Here are other reasons that make Germany the best auto manufacturer globally:
History
Mercedes-Benz is a car company that originated from Karl Benz’s invention that has sustained its high quality for years. This testifies to the success and excellence of the brand.
Speed
Germans manufacture cars that exemplify speed and safety, so it is no surprise their vehicles outperform other cars. Germany’s highway system doesn’t require a speed limit, enabling drivers to freely use their horsepower.
German car brands are engineered with precision and skill to reach high top speeds. The process begins with well-trained professionals who took vocational engineering courses before completing the equivalent of high school. As a result, German cars are reputed for being produced by people who take pride in their skill and craftsmanship.
Marketing
Audi, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche are renowned companies with associations and successful marketing campaigns. Aside from excellent products, the success of these companies comes down to how these cars are being marketed.
An example is the German strategy of using their own language for marketing purposes, even in foreign countries. Audi, BMW and Volkswagen use these terms to emphasize the “German-ness” of their products:
- “Vorsprung Durch Technik” (advancement through technology)
- “Das Auto” (the car)
- “freude am fahren” (driving pleasure)
This, in turn, will create a logic that when people know it’s German, they will want to buy it.
Are German Car Brands Better than Japanese Cars?
When selecting a car manufacturer, German and Japanese cars offer numerous advantages to customers. There is no wrong answer; pick whichever best meets your needs and expectations.
Japanese brands such as Honda and Toyota offer functionality, reasonable prices, and trustworthiness. On the other hand, BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer class, visual appeal, and a touch of luxury.
Why Is Volkswagen the Most Popular German Car Brand?
Many people opt for Volkswagen due to its attractive starting price, low maintenance costs, and impressive fuel efficiency. These reflect the German manufacturers’ goal of making cars accessible to all.
Making a decision when it comes to cars has always been challenging. You get the complete package with each vehicle, including comfort, powerful performance, and sophisticated technology. You can also be assured of reliable engine power, low service costs, outstanding warranties, and roadside assistance.
How To Maintain German-Made Cars?
German cars require special repair services and specific maintenance schedules compared to other vehicles. If you own a BMW, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz, it’s important to take good care of it to preserve its value. Here are the best ways to maintain German-made cars:
Change Oil As Needed
The engine’s oil is important for some reasons: to avoid overheating, ensure ease of operation, and reduce damage caused by friction. Its consistency gradually becomes thinner over time. So, an oil change is needed every few thousand kilometres (3,000 to 5,000).
Pay attention to the odometer when making oil changes. Failing to do so can cause harm to your engine. Different cars require different types of oil. Some may need synthetic or a certain brand or type.
Use High-Quality Parts
If you can manage the expenses, you should equip your German car with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) components and parts. They are designed per the manufacturer’s quality standards and can guarantee long-term reliability.
Good aftermarket alternatives can offer an excellent price and durability ratio if OEM parts are found to be too expensive. They can provide a great solution for those needing more than OEM parts.
Check the Battery’s Condition
Weather and temperature can easily affect your car battery’s condition. Ensure your car’s battery has a tight connection and is corrosion-free by performing preventative measures. These include keeping it insulated, using your car regularly, and checking the battery’s voltage monthly.
AGM batteries are the standard for German automotive needs. They provide 5 to 7 years of long-lasting life, However, these batteries may lack indicators when nearing the end of their life period.
Regularly Check Tires And Brake Pads
Tires provide connection to the road and other vehicles. Without them, a giant skateboard is the only thing available for smooth-as-butter gliding. Inspecting and rotating tires regularly will ensure everything is in good con.
Tires lose their grip on the road as they age. So, you should replace them after every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometres. You must replace them more often if you drive on rough or uneven terrain or in extreme weather conditions.
Brake pads also need replacement, depending on your vehicle. They may need to be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 kilometres.
Get the Best-Priced German Cars in Perth
German car brands have established themselves globally with their trusted reputation of quality and engineering. From Volkswagen to Porsche, car lovers worldwide have looked out for these brands for many years. Thanks to their eye-catching design and cutting-edge technology.
In the auto industry, it’s not always about what’s new. It’s about what’s been around for years and continues to lead the market.
If you are ready to get behind the wheel of one of these beautiful cars, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Mad Man Motors. We can’t wait to discuss the options and give you our best models in stock!
