The 1920s

The birth of the automobile as we know it. Lancia invented the monocoque chassis with the Lambda, eliminating the need for a separate body-on-frame structure. Mercedes built supercharged racing cars that set speed records across Europe. Bentley dominated Le Mans with a series of victories that established the 24-hour race as the ultimate test of endurance. Alfa Romeo began its racing dynasty. The foundations of European automotive engineering were established in this decade, with innovations in materials, aerodynamics, and engine design that would shape the next century.

1 vehicle from this era