Many car companies have had an interesting assortment of logos in their years making vehicles (or other products such as weaving looms). Some companies have even ended their car production and switch to something far more profitable – arms dealing (looking at you Saab). Below are several timelines of some of the greatest manufacturers in history.
Honda:
(Image credit 1000logos)
Honda started out as a small company in Japan making piston rings in 1937. When war broke out, the company was directed by the government to make airplane components. After WWII, the company set off designing and building motorbikes in a small shed, eventually building their reputation to become the worlds largest motorcycle company. In 1963, Honda released their first four-wheeler, a tiny pickup truck called the T360, followed by more models as Honda expanded their product line. A luxury division, Acura, was formed in 1986 to appeal to the American market, and in 1991, Honda released their first supercar, the NSX. Honda still exists today, continuing production of cars and bikes, as well as having created an aircraft subsidiary.
Aston Martin:
(Image credit Car Brands)
Aston Martin was officially formed in 1913, but due to the start of WWI, were unable to make their first car until 1915. They continued making racing and touring cars until after WWII, when they decided to expand into road cars. Sir David Brown bought the company and started their famous “DB” lineup. These cars, made famous by Le Mans and James Bond, have continued production, with new models continuously being created. Today, Aston have partnered with Mercedes-Benz and have a racing division.
Porsche:
(Image credit Car Brands)
Founded in 1931 under the control of Volkswagen, this sport car company first designed the classic Volkswagen Beetle. When WWII broke out, the company was contracted to design and build the infamous Kübelwagen, as well as producing a tank destroyer for the German military. Like many other vehicle companies, after the war Porsche decided to move on to creating sports cars, which it have continued to present day. The company is still owned by Volkswagen, and now is known for it’s luxury SUVs, sports cars, and matching designer products.