When you think of German engineering, names like BMW and Audi instantly come to mind. But beyond these iconic brands lies a world of hidden gems. These lesser-known German car makers have made their mark in unique and innovative ways. Let’s take a closer look at 20 underrated brands that deserve more recognition.

Borgward

Once rivaling Volkswagen in popularity, Borgward crafts vehicles that are both elegant and technically advanced. It peaked with models like the Isabella, which was loved for its timeless design. After a hiatus, Borgward made a surprising return in 2015 to focus on SUVs with global appeal.

Gumpert

Known for pushing boundaries, they delivered Apollo, a hypercar designed for ultimate performance. Founded by Roland Gumpert in 2004, the brand prioritized aerodynamics and speed. The Apollo stunned enthusiasts with its track-ready engineering and aggressive looks, and though short-lived, left a lasting impact on the hypercar world.

Bitter

Bitter specializes in luxury and exclusivity. Erich Bitter, a former racing driver, launched the company in 1971 to create bespoke grand tourers. Models like the Bitter CD and SC applied Italian-inspired designs to Opel underpinnings. With limited production runs, these cars remain collector’s items and personify refined individuality.

Wiesmann

Famed for its handcrafted sports cars, Wiesmann pairs retro aesthetics with innovative engineering. It has been capturing hearts since 1988 with models like the MF3, which features a BMW engine wrapped in a retro-futuristic design. The company’s gecko logo symbolizes its cars’ unparalleled grip on the road. 

NSU

These Bavarian autosmiths pioneered innovation, introducing the world’s first rotary-engined car, the NSU Ro 80, in 1967. Known for sleek designs and engineering finesse, NSU’s experiments with the Wankel engine were groundbreaking. While the brand merged with Audi in 1969, its legacy lives on as a tribute to experimental boldness.

Isdera

Isdera’s exotic designs and uncompromising performance make it a standout. Founded in 1982 by Eberhard Schulz, the company hand-builds each car to order. The Imperator 108i and Commendatore 112i exemplify its futuristic vision. It remains a niche yet highly respected name among automotive connoisseurs.

Artega

Artega’s brief but impactful journey introduced the Artega GT, a sleek, lightweight sports car with advanced technology. Launched in 2006, Artega focused on making performance environmentally sustainable, which explains their later pivot to electric vehicles. This commitment to innovation continues to influence the evolving EV market.

Auto Union

Before merging with Audi, Auto Union was a powerhouse of pre-war racing. It was comprised of four brands: Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer, and it was formed in 1982. Auto Union revolutionized motorsports with its “Silver Arrows” race cars. The legacy forms the foundation of Audi’s modern-day excellence.

Melkus

Sports cars with a flair for the dramatic were Melus’s calling cards. What was even more impressive was that the company was founded in East Germany in 1959, making it one of the only quality car manufacturers in a communist country. Despite limited resources, Melkus achieved remarkable success in embodying determination and ingenuity in challenging times.

Apollo Automobil

Rising from Gumpert’s ashes, Apollo Automobil set out to redefine hypercars. Its Apollo IE (Intensa Emozione) merges raw power with innovative aerodynamics. Apollo has taken on a modern, adrenaline-fueled approach to automotive craftsmanship since 2016 and pushed the limits of design and performance.

Borgward’s Goliath

A subsidiary of Borgward, it produced compact yet innovative vehicles from the 1930s to the 1950s. Notable for pioneering fuel injection, Goliath cars personified efficiency and practicality. Moreover, models like the GP700 offered advanced features for their time to leave a quiet yet profound impact on automotive technology.

Veritas

Veritas emerged post-WWII, crafting racing-inspired sports cars from BMW components. Known for its sleek and lightweight designs, the Veritas RS excelled on the track. Though production ceased by the 1950s, the brand’s revival in 2001 brought modern reinterpretations of its iconic style.

Carlsson

They specialize in the high-performance tuning of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The company has been turning luxury cars into powerful, bespoke masterpieces since 1989. Its aerodynamic enhancements and engine upgrades cater to enthusiasts seeking unique driving experiences, which makes Carlsson a standout in the tuning world.

Hanomag

Hanomag transitioned from manufacturing locomotives to cars in the early 20th century. Its Kommissbrot model, introduced in 1925, was a compact and affordable vehicle that gained popularity for its simplicity. Hanomag’s contributions paved the way for accessible transportation during a pivotal era.

Karmann

Though better known as coachbuilders, they also created iconic cars. Collaborations with brands like Volkswagen resulted in timeless models such as the Karmann Ghia. This combination of Italian styling and German engineering remains the standard that car designers still strive for.

Glas

Glas pioneered innovations like the belt-driven overhead camshaft. It gained fame after its founding in the 1950s with the Goggomobil microcar and later the stylish Glas GT. Their inventive spirit still influences automotive engineering today, a legacy that was ensured by their absorption into BMW.

MAN

Primarily known for commercial vehicles, they dabbled in car production in the early 20th century. The company’s focus on sturdy and reliable engineering, along with practical efficiency, made its automobiles reliable. Though it shifted to trucks and buses, MAN’s foray into cars was a demonstration of its versatile expertise.

Ruf

Porsche enthusiasts swear by RUF, which transforms standard models into high-performance, ultra-desirable machines. Founded in 1939, Ruf builds and tunes vehicles with unmatched precision. The CTR “Yellowbird” remains an iconic symbol of the brand’s dedication to speed and craftsmanship.

Wanderer

A member of the Auto Union group, Wanderer produced elegant luxury cars before WWII. Its focus on comfort and quality set it apart, with models like the W25K showing off advanced engineering for its time. Wanderer’s contributions to Auto Union’s legacy remain significant in automotive history.

Heinkel

Heinkel’s transition from aircraft to microcars resulted in the Heinkel Kabine, a compact and quirky vehicle. Designed for post-war economies, the Kabine offered affordability and efficiency. While short-lived, Heinkel’s microcar era reflects the adaptability and creativity of German manufacturing.