Jay Leno's Garage

Jay Leno Drives the First Supercar: 1913 Mercedes 3795 Double Phaeton Torpedo (2025x20)

Air date: May 19, 2025

Before Bugatti. Before Ferrari. Before McLaren. There was this. ???? Jay Leno takes you back in time to drive what many consider to be the first true supercar: the 1913 Mercedes 3795 Double Phaeton Torpedo. With a 580 cubic inch (9.6L!) 4-cylinder engine producing 95 horsepower, this beast could reach 100 mph — in 1913. Restored to period-correct glory by the Nethercutt Collection, this chain-driven monster shows off the cutting-edge luxury and power of pre-WWI engineering. Featuring coachwork by Henri Labourdette, three overhead valves per cylinder, and jaw-dropping design, this is automotive royalty. If you love early automotive history, German engineering, or just pure vintage speed — this is your ride. Strap in.