1900 Benz MotorWagon | Rugby, Warwickshire

The Benz MotorWagon is the three-wheeler Karl Benz patented in 1886 under patent number 37435, regarded as the first automobile. It is known for a single-cylinder engine at the rear, a tubular steel frame and wire-spoked wheels. Bertha Benz made the 65-mile journey of 1888 in one. This car is a replica of that 1885 machine, finished in black with a maroon interior and in excellent condition. It keeps the open tricycle layout, with wooden body panels on a steel frame. An electric motor does the driving, while the engine behind the seat turns for show and a smoke machine adds realistic fumes. It is not road legal, so it arrives by trailer. The open, spindly frame leaves every detail visible, which suits period film and TV, advertising and photography built around the birth of motoring. The moving engine and smoke give music videos, fashion and editorial shoots and events a talking point. A wedding or celebration can feature it too. It is based in Rugby, Warwickshire.