The invention relates to a system for automatic following-distance control, notably in congested traffic, in a motor vehicle (1) so as to facilitate driving in congested traffic by both taking over transverse steering by means of an automatic steering system and ensuring that a given distance is maintained to a vehicle driving ahead. The latter function calls for an adaptive driving and brake control system with a 'stop' and 'go' function. According to the invention selection and decision means (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) are provided for which are able to selected both control parameters and control types, for example following-distance control of the motor vehicle (1) in accordance with road markings recognized by video camera or in accordance with a detected leading vehicle. The system is divided into hierarchical levels (I-IV). The driver always remains in the monitoring and adaptation circuit assigned to the highest hierarchical level (IV) so that he has the highest priority and can overrule the system at any time.