Torque, Tears, and Turnarounds: How These 14 Cars Saved Their Brands from Collapse

2. Volkswagen Beetle (Post-WWII)

Emerging from the ashes of World War II, Volkswagen was on the brink of collapse. The unlikely hero was the Beetle—simple, reliable, and affordable. This compact car transcended its humble origins to become a global sensation, quickly overtaking rivals like the Citroën 2CV.
Its iconic design and accessible price made it beloved on nearly every continent, turning Volkswagen into a household name. By the 1970s, the Beetle had become the world’s best-selling car, laying the foundation for VW’s global dominance. Read more about the Beetle’s remarkable journey.