If you’re on this page, you must have heard of or been wondering why German cars are believed to be better than Italian cars. After all, the two nations are highly reputable for producing premium vehicles, right?
The debate on whether it’s the German or Italian cars that are the best is a hard to settle one.
This is because, whereas the Germans pride themselves with the ownership of Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, the Italian also boasts highly reputable brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati.
Well, when it comes to best performance, raving features, and wider options, the German automakers still enjoy reverence as industry leaders. So, in this article, we unearth 6 reasons people feel German cars are better than Italian cars.
Check also: Best names for your German car.
Table of Contents
1. German Cars Are Revered for Their Precision Engineering
German automakers, especially the like of Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW, are often admired for their engineering expertise. They are usually revered for their precision engineering and raving performance.
The precision is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, stability, and exactitude in design and manufacturing. This is why most German cars are known for their tight tolerances, precise fit and finish, and high build quality.
The quality of the German engineering often translates to uniqueness in most German cars, especially BMW.
In an industry where several vehicles share similarities in terms of their build structure and quality, you’ll hardly find such regularities in most high-ended German rides.
Thanks to the German precision engineering, which often translates into better overall performance, durability, and reliability.
Italian automakers are also reputable players in the industry in terms of vehicle engineering. However, most of their efforts are channeled towards improving speed, style, and acceleration.
This is why Ferrari remains the industry leader in terms of producing sports and racing cars.
READ ALSO: Here are some popular names for Italian cars.
2. German Automakers Devote Longer Time to Innovation and Advanced Technology
German car manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to stay at the forefront of automotive technology. In fact, according to Nesfircroft, a third of Germany’s expenditure is dedicated to research and development.
It is no surprise that these automakers are known for introducing innovative features such as advanced driver assistance systems, hybrid and electric drivetrains, and sophisticated infotainment systems.
This technology can enhance safety, comfort, and performance, and also keep their cars competitive in the market. You may want to read about why German cars are so expensive
For instance, the 2023 BMW iX electric SUV has advanced driver assistance systems such as traffic jam assist. This feature, amongst several others, helps the car to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of it during stop-and-go traffic.
The car also has a 14.9-inch touchscreen display that can be controlled with hand gestures, voice commands, or by touching the screen. These features enhance safety, comfort, and convenience for the driver and passengers.
For a quick comparison, even when the 2023 Audi R8 didn’t feature most of Audi’s latest advanced driver safety aids, the exquisitely-built Ferrari Roma only features convenience and safety features as options.
3. German Cars Offer Better Performance
German cars are often associated with high-performance engines and superior handling. Although the Italian also boasts some high-performing engines like the ones seen in some Lamborghini and Ferrari rides, most of their cars are only admired for their speed and stylishness.
German car manufacturers have a strong tradition of engineering cars that deliver impressive performance on the road. In fact, in terms of racing heritage, the Germans are also making marks through technological advancement.
They use advanced technologies like turbocharging, direct injection, and lightweight materials to produce cars that are not only fast but also agile and precise in their handling.
For example, the 2023 Audi R8 has a V10 engine that produces up to 602 horsepower. The car can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds, and its handling is precise and responsive.
These performance characteristics make the car exhilarating to drive, whether on the track or on an open road.
Mind you, the decision of who offers the better performance between German cars and their Italian rivals is not always an easy one. This is because Maserati, Lamborghini, and Ferrari have produced a series of exotic cars that also offer a raving performance.
However, Italian automakers do not offer a wide range of luxury and exotic cars to select from, unlike the Germans. Even the few available ones often come at a remarkably higher price than those of their German rivals.
You might want to check whether Porsches are cheaper in Germany, U.S, or Europe.
4. German Automakers Prioritize the Use of High-Quality Materials
In addition, German car manufacturers are known for their rigorous quality control and testing standards. They use high-quality materials and precision manufacturing techniques to build cars that are built to last.
The German automakers have a reputation for producing reliable vehicles that require fewer repairs and maintenance than other cars. This is unlike most of their Italian rivals, including some Ferraris and Lamborghinis.
In fact, Fiat, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo have an underwhelming reputation regarding vehicle reliability.
By prioritizing the use of high-quality materials, most German automakers have maintained a high-quality standard aimed at delivering a durable and high-performing ride.
For instance, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan undergoes extensive testing to ensure its build quality and reliability are top-notch.
The manufacturer tested the car’s components under extreme conditions, such as extreme temperatures and vibration, to ensure they can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
This attention to detail and quality control contribute to the car’s overall reliability and durability. And it is what set most German cars apart from their competitors.
5. German Car Manufacturers Place a High Priority on Safety
It is important to also note that German car manufacturers place a high priority on safety. This is why most vehicles of German descents often come with advanced safety features, such as multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and adaptive cruise control.
They also use advanced materials and engineering to design cars that can withstand crashes and protect occupants in case of accidents.
While several Italian cars also come with most of these features, they often come as options, not as standard features. This is unlike many German cars that come with loads of standard safety features.
For example, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI features automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning, amongst several other safety features.
Moreover, the car also has a rigid body structure and advanced airbag systems to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These safety features help to prevent accidents and minimize injuries in case of an accident. This is just as it is with several other German cars.
Related: 5 Reasons German Cars Are More Reliable in Europe (Explained)
6. German Car Manufacturers Offer a Broad Range of Models To Suit Different Needs and Preferences
In a market where most of the Italian vehicles are sports cars and super cars, the Germans produce luxury sedans, sporty coupes, practical SUVs, and everything in between. This allows customers to choose a car that fits their lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
From a family SUV that can carry up to eight passengers and their cargo to a high-performing sports car designed for driving enthusiasts, the German automakers always offer a broad range of vehicle models.
The truth is, whereas most Italian cars are designed for upper crust customers, German car manufacturers produce cars that cater to a wide range of customers.
From those looking for luxury and comfort to those looking for speed and performance, there is a variety to always choose from when it comes to German rides.
Final Thoughts
You must have wondered why many celebrities and athletes love to associate themselves with Italian rides, right? This is mainly because of the stylishness and exquisitely-built bodies of those cars.
Indeed, the Italian automakers make the best of exotic supercars even though they come at premium prices. Because of their build quality, most premium Italian cars automatically impose a posh personality on their drivers, especially when moving in and out of them.
As expected in a competitive market, the Germans offer strong competitions to most Italian cars out there. In fact, they offer more options to select from.
Overall, we may also go with the claim that German cars are better than Italian cars, but we won’t do that. Rather, we leave you to decide.
Sources
A Brief of German Automotive Engineering | Nesfircroft