One reason for the fall of the Roman Empire....
Compared to Italian chariots, the German chariot was much more robust, and was able to complete an entire battle without falling apart.
Also, the German chariot had an advanced suspension design (see the sinews and leather at the bottom) -- this allowed one or more fighters to remain upright over rough ground instead of being throw about, or even out of the vehicle on bumps.
Does any of this sound familiar???
It was on the History channel and I was surprised at the coincidence...
sorry for the blurry pic