Torque is the driving force behind heavy-duty diesel performance, shaping industries and engineering breakthroughs alike. Some engines power championship-winning race cars; others haul impossible loads with effortless strength. Every machine on this list represents a leap forward in diesel innovation. For those who appreciate raw power and mechanical mastery, here are 10 of the highest-torque diesel engines ever made.

2020 Porsche Panamera Diesel (4.0L V8)

Luxury and diesel torque rarely share the same sentence, but the Panamera Diesel proved otherwise. With 627 lb-ft of torque, its twin-turbo V8 delivered effortless power, reshaping expectations for performance sedans. Though Porsche has since phased out diesel models, this powerhouse remains proof of diesel’s potential in high-end vehicles.

Audi R10 TDI LMP1 (5.5L V12 TDI)

When Audi unveiled the R10 TDI, the motorsport world wasn’t ready for a diesel-powered Le Mans contender. Armed with 800+ lb-ft, it didn’t just compete—it dominated. Its revolutionary efficiency and torque forced rivals to rethink race strategy, forever altering the role of diesel in high-performance endurance racing.

Ford Super Duty F-450 XLT (6.7L Powerstroke V8)

Torque is the backbone of heavy-duty trucks, and Ford’s Powerstroke V8 exemplifies this principle with 1,200 lb-ft at the ready. Designed for extreme towing and hauling, it stands as a direct competitor to the industry’s best. Ford’s ability to blend brute force with modern truck innovation keeps this engine a top contender.

Wartsila RT-flex96C (Marine Engine)   

The Wartsila RT-flex96C is a 14-cylinder, two-stroke marine diesel engine producing 7,497,000 Nm of torque at just 102 RPM. In fact, measuring 13.5 meters high and 26.59 meters long, it’s the largest internal combustion engine ever made. Despite its size, it reaches over 50% thermal efficiency, which is exceptional by any standard.

Caterpillar C175-20 (Mining Truck Engine)

Torque doesn’t get much bigger than the Caterpillar C175-20, which produces over 3,500 lb-ft for mining operations. Found in the Cat 797F, this diesel giant moves staggering payloads with ease, showing how industrial engines are designed for peak efficiency and extreme workloads.

General Motors 16-645E3A (Locomotive Engine)  

Looking for torque legends in locomotive history? The GM 16-645E3A delivers. Used in Union Pacific’s 6900 series, this V16 diesel produced over 19,200 lb-ft of torque. Each unit carried two engines, doubling power. At the time of introduction, the 6900 series was the longest and most powerful diesel locomotive in existence.

Volkswagen R50 Turbo Diesel (5.0L V10)

Diesel SUVs rarely enter the high-performance conversation, yet Volkswagen’s Touareg R50 commands attention. With 627 lb-ft from its V10 turbo diesel, it combined brute force with luxury and became one of the most unique SUVs in diesel history.

Audi 6.0L V12 TDI CR

Audi took diesel refinement to another level with the V12 TDI CR, producing 738 lb-ft in a sleek sedan package. This engine bridged the gap between high-torque diesel and luxury performance. Its versatility proves that diesel power could be both exhilarating and sophisticated.

Cummins 6.7L I6 Turbo Diesel

Ram’s Cummins 6.7L, generating 1,075 lb-ft, remains a staple in diesel pickups. Its durability and torque ensure steady performance under demanding conditions. Year after year, this engine continues to deliver the power that truck owners rely on.

GM 6.6L V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel

The Duramax 6.6L V8 stands among diesel heavyweights with 1,300 lb-ft of torque. Over the years, GM has refined its design to keep it competitive against rival truck engines. Today, with the right balance of strength and dependability, this engine has gained a top spot in the diesel performance world.