Few cars symbolize automotive history like the Volkswagen Beetle. Originally designed in Germany during the late 1930s, it became an icon of accessible mobility, capturing hearts worldwide with its affordable price, reliability, and distinctive, rounded design. Over its impressive eight-decade lifespan, the Beetle achieved extraordinary global sales, surpassing 21 million units. This achievement places it among automotive legends, rivaling iconic models like Ford’s Model T. Beyond mere numbers, the Beetle embodies cultural significance, becoming a symbol of counterculture movements in the 1960s and 70s. Its universal appeal and longevity make the Beetle an enduring benchmark in automotive history, setting the stage for the other remarkable vehicles explored in this article.
