The Most Reliable Engine of All Time, Ranked

Choose the engine you think is the most reliable!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 14, 2024 07:19
Determining the most reliable engine of all time is not just an exercise in nostalgia or engineering admiration, but a practical guide that can impact decisions in a variety of fields, from automotive purchases to heavy industry machinery investments. By ranking these engines, users gain insight into which models have stood the test of time and technology, providing exceptional service life and performance under varied conditions. This dynamic ranking is influenced directly by your contributions, reflecting a collective assessment based on personal experiences, technical evaluations, and historical performance data. Each vote helps refine the accuracy of the ranking, ensuring that newcomers and experienced professionals alike can rely on up-to-date and credible information when making critical decisions related to engine choice and investment.

What Is the Most Reliable Engine of All Time?

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    Chevrolet Small-Block V8

    Chevrolet Small-Block V8

    A series of V8 engines introduced in 1955, known for its simplicity, reliability, and widespread use in Chevrolet vehicles.
    • Production Years: 1955-2003
    • Displacement Range: 262-400 cu in
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    Ford Windsor V8

    Ford Windsor V8

    A family of V8 engines produced by Ford Motor Company, notable for its use in many iconic Ford vehicles and its reliability.
    • Production Years: 1961-2000
    • Notable Models: Mustang, F-150
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    Mazda Wankel/Rotary

    Mazda Wankel/Rotary

    A unique rotary engine used by Mazda in models like the RX-7 and RX-8, known for its high power output relative to its size.
    • Production Years: 1967-2012
    • Notable Models: RX-7, RX-8
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    Honda B-Series

    Honda B-Series

    A line of inline 4-cylinder DOHC automotive engines introduced by Honda in 1988, famous for its reliability and tuning potential.
    • Production Years: 1988-2001
    • Notable Models: Civic, Integra
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    Cummins B-Series

    Cummins B-Series

    A family of diesel engines used in a wide range of vehicles, known for its durability and longevity, particularly the 5.9L version.
    • Production Years: 1984-present
    • Applications: Pickup trucks, commercial vehicles
  6. 6
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    Mercedes-Benz OM617

    Mercedes-Benz OM617

    A turbo-diesel inline-five engine known for its durability and longevity, used in a variety of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
    • Production Years: 1974-1985
    • Power Output: 80-125 HP
  7. 7
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    BMW M57

    BMW M57

    A line of inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel engines, praised for its efficiency, power, and reliability.
    • Production Years: 1998-2013
    • Power Output: 122-306 HP
  8. 8
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    Subaru EJ Series

    Subaru EJ Series

    A series of flat-four engines used in a variety of Subaru models, known for its durability and the use of boxer configuration.
    • Production Years: 1989-2020
    • Notable Models: Impreza, Forester
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    Toyota 2JZ-GTE

    Toyota 2JZ-GTE

    A 3.0L inline-six engine known for its durability and capability to handle high horsepower with minimal modifications.
    • Production Years: 1991-2002
    • Horsepower Range: 276-320 HP
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    Volkswagen Type 1 (Beetle) Engine

    Volkswagen Type 1 (Beetle) Engine

    An air-cooled flat-four engine used in the Volkswagen Beetle, known for its simplicity and reliability.
    • Production Years: 1936-2003
    • Displacement: 1.1-1.6L

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable engine of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or engine is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

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  • 0 votes
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Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each engine once every 24 hours. The rank of each engine is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Reliable Engine of All Time

Chevrolet Small-Block V8
Rank #1 for the most reliable engine of all time: Chevrolet Small-Block V8 (Source)
Engines have powered human progress for over a century. They drive our cars, planes, and factories. Among these, one stands out for its reliability. This engine has earned trust and respect over decades.

It all starts with the design. Engineers focused on simplicity. Fewer parts mean fewer things can break. Each component is made to last. They chose materials that resist wear and tear. Durability is key in every part.

Maintenance is easy. Owners can perform routine checks without special tools. This engine does not need constant attention. It runs smoothly with basic care. Many engines need frequent tune-ups, but not this one. It keeps running, day after day.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point. It uses less fuel than many others. This saves money and reduces emissions. It also runs well on different types of fuel. This makes it versatile and adaptable.

This engine performs well in all conditions. It starts in cold weather and does not overheat in hot climates. It works at high altitudes and in dusty environments. Its design allows it to handle extremes. This makes it a favorite in many industries.

The engine has a long history. It has powered many types of machines. It has been used in cars, trucks, boats, and planes. It has even found a place in industrial equipment. Its versatility is unmatched.

Users praise its longevity. Many engines last for hundreds of thousands of miles. Some have even reached a million miles. This is a testament to its build quality. It rarely breaks down, even under heavy use.

This engine has also been a favorite in racing. Its reliability gives drivers confidence. They know it will perform when it matters most. It has won many races and set records. Its performance on the track speaks volumes.

The engine has evolved over time. Engineers have made improvements without losing its core strengths. Newer versions are even more efficient and reliable. They meet modern standards while staying true to the original design.

It has also been a popular choice for custom projects. Many enthusiasts choose it for their builds. They know they can count on it. Its reputation makes it a go-to option for many.

In summary, this engine stands out for its reliability. Its simple design, durability, and efficiency make it a top choice. It performs well in all conditions and lasts a long time. It has powered many machines and won many races. It continues to evolve, staying relevant in a changing world. Its legacy of reliability is unmatched.

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