11. Citroën 2CV
Introduced in 1948, the Citroën 2CV was engineered to motorize rural French farmers, featuring a minimalist design and go-anywhere capability. Its distinctive “umbrella on four wheels” appearance and practicality turned it into a counterculture symbol, akin to the VW Beetle. Over 5 million units were produced by 1990, solidifying its status as an enduring icon of French automotive engineering. (media.stellantis.com) For a visual overview of the Citroën 2CV’s history, you might find this video informative: The Citroën 2CV Story