7 of the simplest cars ever made

Simplicity is key for manufacturing cars in the millions. Hence, stripping down projects and making a simple, straightforward mechanical setup is essential for a car for the masses. Following the logic of fewer parts means fewer failure scenarios, these cars make the price of owning a car something affordable. These seven cars excel in these areas and are the epitome of straight to the point, minimalistic engineering. These are the kings of simple:

1. Ford Model T

The first mass-produced car ever and one of the best selling automobiles of the entirety of automotive history is absurdly easy and uncomplicated. It had to be like that in order to increase production speed and reduce costs, so it could be bought by the highest number of people as possible. With a 2,8 litre four pot which made 20hp and reached 75 Km/h, it could withstand harsh conditions with superb reliability.

2. VW Beetle

The best selling car of all time is king when it comes to easy engineering. Heck, you can even change the alternator belt while the engine runs. It kept being competitive in some markets, like Mexico and Brazil until the late 90’s. It even made to the 21st century, with the last unit being made in 2003.It endured 65 years of production due to its absurdly well-conceived project.

3. DKW 3=6 (Also known as the Belcar in some markets)

This sympathetic German car was a Beetle rival that didn’t enjoy the success its Wolfsburg alternative had. However, it was pretty enjoyed in some other markets, especially in Brazil. It made for a reliable and roomy alternative to the Veedub. With a 0.9 litre two-stroke three-pot engine which could develop 34bhp. Besides all of that, it came with many bodywork options, all of them with more space than the Beetle.

4. Tata Nano
This extremely stripped-down Indian car was conceived to be the cheapest car in the world. It indeed holds this title, but it has no optionals whatsoever in the base spec. Equipped with a 2 cylinder 0.6 litre engine putting down 38bhp, it is the closest you can get to an engine mounted on wheels. It has lots of merit for reducing cost in such an effective way.

5. Citroën 2CV
This French icon owes its 42-year production run to its utterly simple engineering. With an air cooled two-pot engine putting between 9 and 29 bhp, it is the exact opposite of a performance car. However, it is in economy where it excels, being superbly affordable to own and maintain, with some state of the art engineering for an incredibly low price, it is indeed a piece of art when it comes to minimalistic engineering. Also, to be Chris Harris’ favourite car takes somes serious quality.

6. Morris Mini
The British car for the masses has earned many fans during its 41-year production run. With an admirable versatility and lovely spatial distribution, this British legend has even endured success in motorsport, winning three Monte Carlo rallies. Its I4 ranging between 0.8 and 1.2 litres was extremely reliable and could withstand a lot. only behind the Beetle and the 2CV, it is the third best selling car of the 20th century.

7. Peel P50
The mighty Peel, the smallest car ever made until 2010, made in the Isle of Man was so small it had no reverse gear; It had to be manouvered physically by the driver, who had to pull the car with a handle. It is now being produced with petrol and EV versions and sold to the public. If you want one, you can get it now!It is legally considered a three wheeler, being even considered a moped in some countries as Finland.

This is it, Hope you enjoyed! :) Do you think I have left any car out? What do you think? Leave your opinions in the comments below!