The Dr. Carl Benz Museum was set up in 1996 as the result of a private initiative. The museum collection includes more than 70 vehicles and numerous exhibits documenting the life of Karl Benz and effectively portrays the significance of the invention of the automobile to the history of mobility from its beginnings to the present day.
It must have caused quite a stir when in 1908 the first "C. Benz Söhne" automobiles emerged from what was generally thought to be an engine factory. This temple of mobility has been restored to its former glory in the form of a carefully renovated industrial memorial site and museum. And it is not only the workshop steeped in history that fascinates visitors. Other highlights, including the last two "C. Benz Söhne" vehicles built in Ladenburg and biographical exhibits reflecting the life of Karl Benz (such as his old work room), offer a taste of history. The exhibition is rounded off by a selection of Benz and Mercedes-Benz models and other historical exhibits. The museum collection delivers a fascinating contribution to automotive history.
Five milestones of mobility:
"Dr. Carl Benz-Platz". The exhibit vehicles built by C. Benz Söhne and Benz & Cie. in Mannheim underline why Karl Benz deserves his status as a legend of automotive engineering. They include the world's first automobile, the Patent Motor Car built in 1886 and the last C. Benz Söhne vehicle built in 1924, which Karl Benz himself owned.
"Mercedes-Allee". A bumper-to-bumper collection of vehicles that have helped to shape automotive history is on display here. It features Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the early days of Daimler-Benz AG right up to the 1950s and includes a model 130 with rear-mounted engine and a 170 S convertible.
"Boxenstopp" ("Pit stop"). Motorsport has always played an important role in automotive development at Mercedes-Benz. A line-up of motor-racing legends striking victory poses are on display here.
"Auto-Biografie" ("Autobiography"). Comprehensive documentation and a broad selection of exhibits take the visitor on a journey along the path of world and automotive history.
"Zweirad-Galerie" ("Gallery of two-wheelers"). In addition to the automobile, the two-wheeled carriage played a significant role in the history of mobility. Visitors can experience at close hand a fascinating collection of two-wheelers from various time periods.