Inline-six engines have powered some of the most memorable cars in automotive history by blending performance and character in a unique way. Explore these 10 legendary vehicles that continue to earn respect among gearheads and collectors.

1971 BMW 3.0 CSL

Known as the “Batmobile” in race trim, this lightweight coupe dominated the European Touring Car Championship and introduced bold aero-like large rear wings. The 1971 BMW 3.0 CSL featured a 3.0L M30 inline-six with up to 206 hp and paved the way for BMW M.

1970 Pontiac Firebird

Pontiac’s 1970 Firebird offered a 250 cu-in inline-six with 155 hp as a smart alternative during a time when V8 insurance costs soared. Built on the same F-body as the Camaro, it’s now rare and known for its sharp looks and solid handling.

1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1

With a rare-for-its-time monocoque design and triple SU carburetors, this car offered performance and elegance. It hit 150 mph with a 4.2L inline-six that produced 265 hp. The 1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 still turns heads, and Enzo Ferrari famously called it “the most beautiful car ever made.”

1967 Toyota 2000GT

Only 351 units of this Japanese grand tourer were ever made. It had a wood-trimmed interior, a top speed of 135 mph, and even appeared in a James Bond film. Under the hood, the 1967 Toyota 2000GT housed a 2.0L DOHC inline-six co-developed with Yamaha.

1962 Chevrolet Corvette (C1)

A 3.9L “Blue Flame” inline-six with 150 hp powered the earliest version of this American icon. The 1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1, offered only with an automatic transmission in its debut year, struggled at first but laid the foundation for a sports car legend. Early models are now rare finds.

1969 Nissan Skyline GT-R

Nicknamed “Hakosuka” for its boxy look, this car racked up over 50 wins in less than two years and drew engine inspiration from the Prince R380 racer. Its 2.0L DOHC S20 inline-six produced 160 hp, making the 1969 Nissan Skyline GT-R a collector’s dream today.

1970 Datsun 240Z

The 1970 Datsun 240Z quickly earned a loyal following. This sleek sports coupe reached 0–60 in under 8 seconds and challenged European giants like Jaguar and Porsche at a lower price. Its 2.4L L24 inline-six produced 151 hp and sparked an iconic lineage.

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

Gullwing doors weren’t just for looks—they were a design necessity due to a tubular chassis. Beneath that silver skin, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL packed a 3.0L inline-six with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, hit 160 mph, and drew the attention of racers and celebrities alike.

1998 Toyota Supra Turbo (Mark IV)

Built with a twin-turbocharged setup and famous for its bulletproof 3.0L 2JZ-GTE inline-six, this powerhouse handled over 800 hp without breaking a sweat. The 1998 Toyota Supra Turbo shot to cult fame after “The Fast and the Furious” and remains a tuning world favorite.

1983 BMW 635CSi

The 1983 BMW 635CSi introduced early digital tech like a trip computer and set the blueprint for future 6-Series models with a perfect blend of style and muscle. Its sleek shark-nose profile and grand touring comfort masked a 3.4L M30 inline-six that delivered silky performance.