Stoewer Greif V8 (1934)JP Landsdale, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Stoewer Greif V8

1934 — Germany

Pre-War (before 1946)German
Engine2,489 cc
DrivetrainRWD

Stoewer Greif V8

Stoewer introduced the Greif V8 in 1934 as one of Europe's first front-wheel-drive V8 automobiles, showcasing remarkable engineering ambition. The car featured a compact 2.5-liter V8 engine producing 60 hp, mounted transversely to drive the front wheels through a sophisticated transmission. Independent suspension on all wheels and hydraulic brakes represented cutting-edge technology for the era. Despite its technical sophistication and elegant styling, sales were limited due to high complexity and cost. Only about 400 Greif V8s were built before Stoewer shifted focus to military vehicle production, making survivors exceptionally rare today.