Karl Benz On 1885 Benz Motorwagen [Image via Thoughtco]
19. Karl Benz
Most Famous For Inventing: The Automobile
Karl Benz was actually the man that invented the first practical automobile. The German engineer was able to develop his Benz Patent Motorcar in 1885 but didn’t receive the official patent until 1886. As an engine designer, he developed several different types for his automobiles. One of these is the flat engine, which he was given the patent for in 1896.
[Image via Britannica]This is a form of piston engine, where the cylinders are located on either side of a central crankshaft. It’s most effective in the V-Engine. The flat engine version most used now is the boxer engine. They are often used in some high-performance racecars as well as the Porsche & Subaru vehicles. It was eventually used in motorcycles, including by Harley-Davidson.