10 Timeless Car Engines That Set The Standard

No, not all engines are created equal. Some roar to life and never let up, while others fade out too soon. The engines on this list are the kind that refuses to quit, running for hundreds of thousands of miles, hauling heavy loads, and taking on the toughest conditions. If you’re looking for reliability, come check this out.
Toyota 2JZ-GTE

Some engines earn respect, and others command it. The Toyota 2JZ-GTE falls into the latter category. With a cast-iron block and a forged steel crankshaft, the inline-six is built to handle substantial power, and it certainly lives up to that design. Even when tuners push it past 1,000 horsepower, it just keeps going.
Honda K-Series

The Honda K-Series is small but mighty. Designed for efficiency and performance, it blends high-revving excitement with durability. The K20A2 in the RSX Type S reaches 8,000 rpm, while the K24 in the Accord offers longevity. Many exceed 200,000 miles. Honda fans say it’s an engineering masterpiece built to last.
Mercedes-Benz OM617

Built like a tank, the OM617 defines longevity. This 3.0L five-cylinder diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz models from the ’70s to the ’90s, and many still run today. With a cast-iron block and legendary durability, it’s a favorite among taxi drivers and high-mileage owners who demand reliability in extreme conditions.
BMW M50

BMW built the M50 with one thing in mind: durability. This inline-six, introduced in the ’90s, features a cast-iron block and an aluminum head, making it tough as nails. Even with hard driving, it shrugs off abuse. It’s the kind of engine that makes you wonder if BMW made it too good.
Chevrolet Small Block V8

Since 1955, the Chevy Small Block V8 has defined American performance, powering muscle cars, trucks, and restorations. Its ease of maintenance and modifiability make it a legend. However, recent versions, like the L87 V8, have faced reliability concerns. Despite this, its impact on automotive history remains undeniable.
Ford 300 Inline-6

Trucks, work vans, farm equipment—Ford’s 300 inline-six has done it all. It doesn’t break. It doesn’t complain. It just works. Owners rack up 300,000+ miles without breaking a sweat, and mechanics will tell you, if you have one, hold onto it. Engines like this don’t come around often.
Volvo Redblock

Volvo didn’t just build an engine. They built a survivor. The Redblock, found in models from the ‘70s to the ‘90s, is a no-nonsense, cast-iron beast that refuses to quit. With basic maintenance, it’ll outlive the car itself. Cold winters? High mileage? Rough terrain? The Redblock laughs in the face of it all.
Lexus 1UZ-FE

Smooth and powerful. The 1UZ-FE was Lexus’s first V8, and they didn’t cut corners. This aluminum-block masterpiece was built for luxury but has found its way into everything from drift cars to off-road rigs. It’s refined yet rugged, proving that high performance and reliability can go hand in hand.
Subaru EJ22

The Subaru EJ22 is known for its durability, especially in 1990-1996 models, with its non-interference design, meaning a snapped timing belt won’t cause engine damage. However, in 1997 and newer models, a snapped belt can result in serious damage. Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity.
Toyota 1GR-FE

Toyota trucks and SUVs trust the 1GR-FE for a reason. This 4.0L V6 is built to handle extreme mileage, heavy loads, and harsh conditions. Off-roaders love it. Daily drivers rely on it. If you need an engine that works as hard as you do, this is the one.