The auto-making industry was born in Europe in the 1880s when German engineer Carl Benz generated the world’s first car equipped with a gasoline engine. Subsequently, the European automobile industry started to develop rapidly, with a forced stagnation during World War II, which made most factories to refocus on the production of military equipment.
After the war, many enterprises were destroyed, but already in the 1950s European manufacturers started to gain speed again, and by the end of the 1960s they took the leading positions in the world arena, which they keep till now, producing cars of different classes and price categories.
In the last two years, there were many pessimistic prognoses about the future of the European automaking industry. The latest statistics show the decrease in car export from Germany and France, however, the local market is still growing.
In December 2019, demand for passenger cars in the European Union grew for the fourth consecutive month (+ 21.7%), which is the highest level in the history of observations.
The largest growth in car sales was observed in France (+ 27.7%), Sweden (+ 109.3%) and the Netherlands (+ 113.9%). In these countries, regional governments increased tax incentives for purchasing new cars with low or zero emissions. As a result, all EU countries, including the major markets, showed strong improvement in December.
If you look at the 5 major EU markets, Germany (+ 5.0%) recorded the largest growth last year, followed by France (+ 1.9%) and Italy (+ 0.3%). In contrast, Spain (-4.8%) and the UK (-2.4%) saw demand fall in 2019.
The German cars are considered to be the world’s most iconic, but what about the cars of France? The French automotive industry can be put on a par with the German one. In terms of car production, France ranks 3rd in Europe after Germany and Russia. The company Renault is among the ten largest transport manufacturers. It is no secret that French cars are produced under license in many countries of the world.
So let’s see what do the car industries of France and Germany have to offer?
The most popular cars produced in France are the following
Renault. Perhaps the most famous French brand, which is now part of the alliance with Nissan. In addition, the car manufacturer is famous for its engines supplied for a number of Mercedes models. At the moment, the budget segment of Renault holds a significant part of the market in Europe and Russia.
Citroen. Widely known as a manufacturer of sports cars, although it has a wide and interesting range of everyday cars and small trucks.
Bugatti. Famous brand, specializing in the production of premium cars and officially owned by Volkswagen.
Peugeot. One of the largest car manufacturers in France, rivaling for leadership with Renault. At the moment it holds 18% of the European market of light commercial vehicles while developing the direction of ecological transport.
Aixam-MEGA. This manufacturer produces super-compact cars for the city. Aixam Crossline – nanocrossover with a maximum speed of 45 km / h, engine volume – 0.4 liters costs only 10-14 thousand EUR.
Germany
The German automotive industry boasts as many different brands as possible:
Audi. The Volkswagen group produces a large number of models of different classes, designed for almost any segment.
BMW. One of the cult German manufacturers specializing in cars and motorcycles.
Mercedes-Benz. The oldest brand that produces stunning premium cars, trucks and buses.
Opel. This manufacturer is focused on the budget segment and ironically since 2017 is a part of the French concern PSA.
Volkswagen. It has a wide range of models from small cars to SUVs and vans.
Porsche. Premium and sports models of this manufacturer are considered the most profitable in terms of one unit, as well as experts, who have repeatedly recognized the most reliable in the world.
In addition to the above-mentioned companies, there are about two dozen small producers in Germany.
Costs
It is actually very difficult to compare the cost of brands’ cars because of the wide model range and different profiles of companies. However, car owners agree that French care is more affordable.
With the exception of Bugatti, all brands offer consumers a wide range of models in the budget segment.
Reliability
By reliability of engines among Germans on leading positions there are BMW and Porsche with their impressive productivity and efficiency. BMW engines are recognized as the most effective and durable, having much more resources and endurance in comparison with analogs.
The least reliable is considered to be the Citroen, whose machines not only often fail, but also are difficult to repair.
Design
In terms of design, both countries have their amazing representatives. Porsche and Bugatti are the sleekest and the most luxurious cars in the world, while BMW and Peugeot use the traditional approaches to design, showing professionalism and strength.
BMW features one of the most recognizable emblems across the globe, which is synonymous with a quality mark. More about the logo you can read here.
Resume
It is impossible to answer which cars are better, as every person has his own priorities — comfort and design or pricing.
Practically all motorists agree in the opinion that German cars are more expensive both at purchase and at maintenance. But they are also considered to be the most durable and reliable, and their design characteristics are slightly higher.
At the same time, owners note the cheapness of cars from France, both in terms of maintenance and general operation. On the other hand, car owners note the lower reliability of “French”, which has to be repaired many times more often.
Convenience is an important factor when choosing a car. According to this criterion, models manufactured in France are more comfortable and are often purchased as family cars.
In general, if convenience and low cost are the priority, then you should pay attention to the French car industry. Whereas for those who like comfort, luxury and reliability German cars are better suited.
