Was the car a victorian invention?

The car, as we know it today, was not a Victorian invention, but its development coincided with the Victorian era (1837-1901). The internal combustion engine, which is fundamental to modern cars, was developed in the late 19th century, with significant contributions from inventors like Karl Benz, who built the first practical automobile in 1885-1886. However, earlier steam-powered vehicles existed before the Victorian period, and various prototypes were created during that time. Thus, while the Victorian era influenced automotive innovation, the car's invention itself occurred towards the end of that period.