Carl Benz's three-wheeler Motorwagen was the first successful use of
the internal combustion-engined motor car. It featured a rear mounted
horizontal engine with vertical crankshaft, belt primary drive and
final transmission to the rear wheels by side chains. The entire
package was placed on a tubular chassis that was suspended in place by
three large wheels. The engine displaced 984cc and provided .9
horsepower. Top speed was achieved at 8 mph.
It was not a romantic
ride; it was loud, smelly and the occupants felt every bump and
vibration. It was primitive, but at the same time it was "state of the
art."
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