<P> The early history of the automobile can be divided into a number of eras, based on the prevalent means of propulsion . Later periods were defined by trends in exterior styling, size, and utility preferences . </P> <P> In 1808, François Isaac de Rivaz designed the first car powered by an internal combustion engine fueled by hydrogen . </P> <P> In 1870 Siegfried Marcus built the first gasoline powered combustion engine, which he placed on a pushcart, building four progressively sophisticated combustion - engine cars over a 10 - to - 15 - year span that influenced later cars . Marcus created the two - cycle combustion engine . The car's second incarnation in 1880 introduced a four - cycle, gasoline - powered engine, an ingenious carburetor design and magneto ignition . He created an additional two models further refining his design with steering, a clutch and brakes . </P>

When was the first car with an engine made