Cars are surrounded by an air of mystery and myth, from urban legends about brands to misconceptions about performance. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most widespread myths about cars, automakers, and motorsports—and reveal the truth behind them.
1. The Ford Model T Was the First Car
Many believe Henry Ford invented the first car, but this isn’t true. Karl Benz is credited with building the first practical automobile in 1885, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. The Ford Model T’s real claim to fame was making cars affordable and accessible through assembly-line production. Ford revolutionized manufacturing, but Benz paved the way for the automobile itself.
2. Red Cars Get More Speeding Tickets
There’s no hard evidence to back this up. Insurance studies show that speeding tickets are more closely related to driver behavior and the type of car, not its color. Red just happens to be eye-catching, which may make it seem more targeted. In reality, black, white, and silver cars are just as likely to receive tickets due to their prevalence on the roads.
3. Diesel Engines Are Always Slower Than Gasoline Engines
While diesel engines have historically been associated with trucks and economy-focused cars, modern diesels, like those in Le Mans-winning race cars or high-performance vehicles like the Audi SQ7, prove they can be both powerful and fast. Diesel engines also offer exceptional torque, making them ideal for towing and performance driving. The myth likely stems from older diesel technology, which prioritized fuel efficiency over speed.
4. Ferrari and Lamborghini Were Born Out of Rivalry
The story goes that Ferruccio Lamborghini started his car company because Enzo Ferrari insulted him, saying, “Stick to building tractors.” While there’s some truth to the anecdote, the rivalry is often exaggerated in retellings. Lamborghini’s primary motivation was to build a refined grand touring car, not just to spite Ferrari. The rivalry grew more prominent as the two brands began competing in the high-performance sports car market.
5. German Cars Are the Most Reliable
German engineering has a stellar reputation, but reliability depends on the model and manufacturer. Brands like Toyota and Honda often outshine German automakers in global reliability rankings. Maintenance costs for German cars also tend to be higher due to complex engineering and premium parts. While brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW excel in luxury and performance, they’re not always synonymous with dependability.
6. Electric Cars Are Slower Than Gas Cars
This was true in the past, but EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Rimac Nevera have shattered the myth. Electric motors provide instant torque, enabling many EVs to out-accelerate traditional gas-powered supercars. Additionally, EVs require fewer moving parts, which translates to smoother and more consistent performance. The myth lingers due to early electric vehicles that prioritized efficiency over speed.
7. Formula 1 Cars Can’t Be Driven by “Regular” People
While F1 cars are incredibly complex and require immense skill to drive competitively, anyone could technically operate one with proper training. However, the absence of power steering, extreme G-forces, and tricky clutch systems make it nearly impossible for an untrained driver to handle them at speed. Driving an F1 car also requires understanding how to optimize aerodynamics and tire management, making it a far cry from everyday driving.
8. All Sports Cars Are Expensive
While it’s easy to associate sports cars with luxury price tags, options like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota GR86 prove you can enjoy a sporty drive without breaking the bank. These cars offer thrilling performance and excellent handling at a fraction of the cost of high-end models like Ferraris or Lamborghinis. Budget-friendly sports cars make driving fun and accessible to enthusiasts of all income levels.
9. The DeLorean DMC-12 Was Fast and High-Tech
The “Back to the Future” movies immortalized the DeLorean, but in reality, the car was underpowered and plagued with reliability issues. Its iconic design overshadowed its lackluster performance. The DMC-12 featured a modest V6 engine that produced only 130 horsepower, and its build quality left much to be desired. Despite its flaws, the car remains a cultural icon, thanks largely to its cinematic fame.
10. Racing Cars Use Regular Gasoline
Motorsport fuels are specially formulated to deliver maximum performance. In series like Formula 1, the “fuel” is more akin to rocket science than what you’d find at your local gas station. These fuels are designed to optimize combustion, enhance engine efficiency, and withstand extreme conditions. Even in grassroots racing, higher-octane fuels or ethanol blends are often used to achieve better performance.
11. Hybrids Are Only for Fuel Economy
Hybrid cars are often seen as slow and boring, designed solely to maximize fuel efficiency. However, models like the Porsche 918 Spyder and McLaren P1 demonstrate that hybrids can be incredibly fast and exhilarating. These performance hybrids use electric motors to boost acceleration and enhance handling, proving that hybrid technology isn’t just for eco-conscious drivers.
12. Convertibles Are Less Safe Than Hardtops
Convertibles have long been thought of as less safe due to their lack of a fixed roof. However, modern convertibles are equipped with advanced safety features, including reinforced frames and roll bars. Many also perform just as well as their hardtop counterparts in crash tests. The real safety factor lies in the car’s overall design and technology, not the roof type.
13. Manual Transmissions Are Always Faster Than Automatics
While manual transmissions once offered better performance, modern automatics have closed the gap. Dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) and advanced automatics now shift faster and more precisely than even the best drivers can with a manual gearbox. Automatics also improve fuel efficiency and are becoming the preferred choice for performance cars and daily drivers alike.
Car myths often stem from outdated information, urban legends, or marketing gimmicks. By debunking these misconceptions, we can make better decisions as drivers and car enthusiasts. The next time you hear a common claim about cars, take a moment to fact-check—the truth might surprise you!
