Volkswagen Beetle
Despite its dubious beginnings as a propaganda gimmick, the VW Beetle became the car of the Hippy movement and the best-selling vehicle in the world. In just a few decades, this little economy car went from having negative connections to WWII to transporting millions of peace-loving hippies to rock festivals (via Car and Driver).
Production on the VW Beetle started in 1938 and ended in 2003, during which time over 22 million cars were made in 14 countries around the globe. The Beetle was the first global car in popularity, affordability, and presence. The Ford Model T motorized the world as the first globally popular automobile. But the VW Beetle improved the concept and became a car for classes that had only dreamed about owning a vehicle, especially in third-world countries in Africa and South America. With its unique technical layout, flat-four engine, and rear-wheel drive, the Beetle was a characteristic site on the roads. It is still one of the most durable and longest-lasting vehicles ever produced.