The “Benz Viktoria” is one of the oldest cars still legally allowed on German roads. Built by automobile pioneer Karl Benz over a century ago, this vintage model is now owned by Karl-Heinz Rehkopf, who occasionally drives it for short trips. The car has several peculiar features: instead of a steering wheel, it uses a steering arm; it has only two gears, a manual brake system, and two types of horns. Driving it requires skill and patience, as the vehicle is unstable at high speeds and very sensitive to weather. Originally belonging to the wealthy Gütermann family for four generations, the car even received the first speeding ticket ever—at just 29 km/h. Starting the engine is a complex ritual involving several levers and adjustments depending on weather conditions. Although the “Viktoria” passed a safety inspection in 2019, it can only be driven during the day and in good weather. It runs on petroleum ether, not regular fuel, and its small tank limits travel distance. For its owner, driving the car is less about reaching a destination than appreciating the slow, nostalgic experience of early motoring.
Vocabulary:
• vintage (adj): classic and old, often admired for its age and quality.
• steering arm (noun): a lever used to control the direction of the car instead of a wheel.
• quirk (noun): a peculiar or unusual feature or habit.
• mechanic (noun): a person skilled in repairing machines, especially engines.
• inspection (noun): a careful examination to check safety or quality.
• hazard warning lights (noun): flashing lights on a car used to signal danger or breakdown.
• retrofitted (verb): added later to something that didn’t originally have it.
• petroleum ether (noun): a type of chemical fuel used in old engines, found in pharmacies.
• signalling disk (noun): a round sign used by drivers to indicate direction or warning.
• embracing (verb): accepting something fully or willingly.
Source: Euromaxx