When someone mentions the auto manufacturer Mercedes-Benz, what words come to mind? If you're like the majority of the world's population, a few words do: luxury, style, and class. It's hard to disagree with any positive sentiments thrown the German auto manufacturer's way, especially with such a storied history also defining the brand. Speaking of history, the Mercedes-Benz brand was established all the way back in 1885. Paul Daimler was seen by townspeople in Cannstatt , Germany this year rolling down the road on a wood-spoked two-wheel vehicle that was propelled by a 4-cycle, smidgeon of horsepower-driven, internal combustion engine. This motorcycle, because that's how we would think of it today, was the beginning of all automobiles as we know them.

While others had tried building a combustible engine, Daimler is credited with building the first really successful one. Fairly soon after Daimler applied for a patent for his new motor, Carl Benz (also of Germany) was given a patent or a 3-wheel motor "car" he built back in 1844. This vehicle contained a single cylinder and a variety of belts, but it wasn't possible for the driver to change gears. Daimler, for his part, when on to build a four-wheel motor carriage in 1866, as well as a V-twin cylinder engine, and the float type and honeycomb type carburetor and radiator before his death in 1900. Benz had formed his own company during this time. The Mercedes-Benz name was constructed in 1926, after many Daimler engines and Benz-built vehicles won several of the first auto races. Mercedes was the name of Emil Jellinek's (who owned controlling stock in Daimler at the time) lovely daughter. Her name also inspired the 1900 Mercedes four-wheeler, which was an immediate success. Even at this time, Mercedes-Benz had a reputation for producing quality, luxurious automobiles.

In the following years (though halted by the War), Mercedes-Benz continued to produce successful vehicles which improved with each year. A 1948 four-door saloon, for example, closely emulated the successful 2.3 liter car of 1939. Mercedes-Benz has a history full of achievements, but we'll try and narrow down some of the most successful Mercedes-Benz vehicles of all time (in no particular order).

First, we'll reminisce about the 1979 Gelandewagen (G-Class): A lightweight combat vehicle, the G-Class could go anywhere and do anything. Today the G-Wagon is adored and owned by many famous celebrities. Another memorable Mercedes-Benz is the 2004 No. 9 CLS. Somewhere between a sporty coupe and a hatchback sedan; the No. 9 created a new vehicle segment. More recently was 2010 No.4 E63 AMG. Truly a sedan that can serve every purpose, it delights in power and aesthetic appearance. Also important was the 1970 No.2 C111. An experimental line of cars used to test burgeoning technologies, the No. 2 encouraged some of the greatest auto discoveries in the 1970s. Lastly, we can't forget the 1955 No.1 300 SLR Racer. The first race car to use air brakes, the SLR truly represents all the iconic charm that Mercedes-Benz lovingly places in its vehicles.

Today, Mercedes-Benz stays on top of competitors like BMW, Audi, Porsche, Cadillac, Lexus, and Range Rover with popular models like 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the 2012 compact luxury SUV Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, and the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.