These are the longest living car models – including British icons and one that was in production for six decades

The Sun

18-05-2025

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Check below to see which car model lived the longest
Published: 23:03,
Updated: 23:03,
THE LONGEST living car models have been revealed, with British icons and a model that was in production for six decades.
These vehicles are iconic worldwide and have earned their place as legendary models.
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Here's the top 10 longest living car models.
10. Mercedes-Benz G-Class (1979-2017) – 38 years
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class was transformed from a rudimentary off-roader to one of the most expensive models in the Mercedes line-up.
The German manufacturer halted production of the original G-Class in 2017, though the newer version still closely resembles the 1979 model.
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9. Peugeot 504 (1968-2006) – 38 YEARS
This popular model won the coveted European Car of the Year award in 1969.
The former Iranian president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad auctioned off his personal 1977 504 in 2010, which sold for a whopping £1.8million.
8. Hilman Hunter (1966-2005) – 39 YEARS
Though mostly forgotten about today, the Himan Hunter went on to become one of Britain's best-selling cars during its 13-year reign on the UK's roads.
Shortly after hitting showroom floors, Iran's national car company signed a deal, making it the country's national car — with the model used for taxis and police vehicles.
7. Mini (1959-2000) – 41 YEARS
A whopping 5.3million Minis were built during its 41 years.
The iconic British motor featured one of the most innovative designs under its hood, which inspired Lamborghini's 4.0-litre V12 engine.
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6. Citroën 2CV (1948-1990) – 42 YEARS
Motor experts credit Citroën's longevity to its simple, no-frills design.
Around 5.1million 2CVs were produced, including an impressive 1.2million van variants.
5. Vaz 2121/Lada Niva/ Lada 4x4 (1977-present) – 48 YEARS & COUNTING
This stunning motor was built to withstand a rugged and off-road terrain.
The Lada underwent a minor facelift in 2020 however, motor fans will be disappointed to learn that the end for this model is near, with a new one expected in 2025.
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4. Hindustan Ambassador (1958-2007) – 49 YEARS
Peugeot paid an eye-watering £10million for the Ambassador in 2017.
The old-school motor has remained largely unchanged since its launch - except for the introduction of a more modern version, the Avigo, in 2004.
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3. Morgan 4/4 (1955-2019) – 64 YEARS
Experts say the Morgan should have been phased out in the 1960s, yet the 4/4 model remained in production until 2019.
Unfortunately, changes to emission regulations affecting the car's Ford Sigma engine led to the end of its production.
2. Volkswagen Type 2 (1949-2013) – 64 YEARS
Production of the Volkswagen Type 2 began after the brand's Dutch importer requested permission to distribute the basic Plattenwagen, originally used to move parts around the Wolfsburg factory.
Europeans primarily used the Bus for work, while Americans fell in love with the camper versions.
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1. Volkswagen Beetle (1938-2003) – 65 YEARS
The Volkswagen is the longest-living car and is an iconic vehicle everywhere in the world.
More than a stunning 21million examples of the Beetle were built in around a whopping 15 countries.