The world's first car was built by Carl Benz in Germany in 1886. Powered by a one litre, single cylinder engine developing less than 1hp, drive to the wheels is by a belt and chains.

The first long distance journey in one of Benz's cars was in 1888, by his wife Bertha with their two sons. During the 66 mile journey she had to make several repairs including fuel line unblocking with her hair pin, a blacksmith repaired the chain, and a cobbler used shoe leather to re-line the brakes. When she ran out of fuel, she purchased more spirit from a local pharmacy.

This working replica of Benz's carriage was donated to the Trust by Bonhams auctioneers.