Happy Birthday Mercedes-Benz: BMW Congratulates its Arch-Rival with a Witty Message

30 Jan 2026 16:08 IST

In a rare and humorous moment of rivalry and respect, BMW extended birthday wishes to Mercedes-Benz on its 140th anniversary with a witty message that quickly captured attention in the automotive world. Shared across BMW's global social media platforms, the congratulatory message celebrated Mercedes' historic role in the invention of the automobile, while also subtly reminding fans of their famous rivalry.

A Competitive Birthday Greeting

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BMW's message was more than just a simple congratulations. It was a clever blend of sportsmanship and rivalry that highlighted the long-standing competition between the two German luxury giants. While congratulating Mercedes-Benz on its historic achievement, BMW also subtly reminded the world that its rivalry has shaped the luxury car industry for decades.

The message resonated with car enthusiasts who have witnessed the Mercedes vs. BMW battle for performance, luxury, and innovation for generations.

140 Years of the Automobile

The year 2026 will mark 140 years since Karl Benz patented the Benz Patent-Motorwagen in 1886, widely considered the world's first automobile. This invention laid the foundation for modern personal transportation and changed the world forever.

Mercedes-Benz, through its early pioneers Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, played a crucial role in bringing motorized vehicles to the masses long before cars became commonplace. Few brands in the world can boast such a rich historical legacy.

BMW's Different Beginnings and Philosophy

Mercedes-Benz CLA

While Mercedes-Benz was born from the invention of the automobile, BMW took a different path. Founded in 1910 and officially incorporated as Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) in 1922, initially as an aircraft engine manufacturer, the company focused on aircraft engines.

This aviation heritage shaped BMW's engineering philosophy, emphasizing precision, performance, and driver-focused dynamics. Over time, BMW established itself as a brand for driving enthusiasts, famously branding itself as "The Ultimate Driving Machine." Two Brands, Two Personalities

Over the years, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have cultivated distinct identities:

Mercedes-Benz has built its reputation on luxury, comfort, and innovation, pioneering numerous safety and engineering technologies.

BMW has focused on sporty performance, sharp handling, and an exhilarating driving experience. This difference in philosophy fueled their rivalry, pushing both brands to continuously innovate and improve their vehicles.

An Iconic Rivalry on the Road and Track

BMW iX3

This rivalry intensified in the 1980s and 1990s, with fierce competition between BMW's M division and Mercedes-AMG. Some notable matchups include:

BMW M3 vs. Mercedes 190E 2.3-16
BMW M5 vs. Mercedes E55 AMG

These iconic cars defined the performance sedan segment and sparked debates among car enthusiasts that continue to this day.

A Rivalry Built on Respect

Despite the competition, Mercedes' playful birthday message to BMW demonstrates the deep respect between the two brands. Their rivalry has driven the automotive industry forward, resulting in better technology, safer cars, and more exciting vehicles for customers worldwide.

Ultimately, both brands have played a crucial role in shaping the modern automobile – and their friendly rivalry continues to inspire innovation.

BMW's playful birthday wishes to Mercedes-Benz serve as a reminder that even fierce competitors can share a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect. They can also acknowledge each other's achievements. As Mercedes celebrates 140 years since the birth of the automobile, this message reflects a century of innovation, competition, and mutual respect between two of the world's most iconic automotive brands.

Mercedes Benz