The Most Reliable Engine Ever Built, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the engine you think is the most reliable!

Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:55

In the journey of technological advancements, engines stand out as pivotal innovations that power our movements and industries. Determining the most reliable engine has practical implications, from improving vehicle longevity to enhancing industrial productivity. By ranking different engines based on reliability, we offer insights that help in making informed decisions whether you're buying a new car, managing a fleet, or involved in engineering. This dynamic ranking is shaped by your votes, reflecting real-world experiences and preferences. Dive into the list to see which engines are currently leading in reliability, and contribute your vote to influence the rankings. Your participation not only guides future buyers but also urges manufacturers to prioritize durability and performance in their engine designs.

What Is the Most Reliable Engine Ever Built?

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41
votes
Jojodancer at English Wikipedia · Public domain

Toyota 2JZ-GTE Engine

Toyota

Known for its durability and solid engineering, the 2JZ-GTE engine has become one of the most iconic engines in automotive history. It was used in the Toyota Supra and is highly sought after by enthusiasts.
The Toyota 2JZ-GTE Engine is a highly acclaimed inline-six, twin-turbocharged engine known for its exceptional durability, power, and aftermarket potential. It is considered one of the most reliable engines ever built.

Displacement: 3.0 liters (2997 cc)

Configuration: Inline-six

Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)

Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection

Turbochargers: Twin sequential turbochargers
2

19
votes
Honda B-Series Engine

Honda

The B-Series engine is known for its reliability, impressive power output, and the ability to handle high levels of boost. It was used in vehicles like the Honda Civic and Acura Integra.
The Honda B-Series Engine is a line of four-cylinder internal combustion engines developed by Honda. It is renowned for its reliability, durability, and performance capabilities. The B-Series Engine has been widely used in Honda and Acura vehicles, as well as in various motorsport applications.

Displacement: ranging from 1.6L to 2.0L

Cylinder Configuration: Inline-four

Valve Train: DOHC, VTEC or non-VTEC

Fuel Delivery: Electronic fuel injection

Power Output: varies by model and generation, ranging from 126 to 197 horsepower
Honda B-Series Engine in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable engine ever made
3

25
votes
Mercedes-Benz OM617 Engine

Mercedes-Benz

The OM617 engine is a diesel engine produced by Mercedes-Benz. It is known for its reliability, longevity, and fuel efficiency. It was used in vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 300D.
The Mercedes-Benz OM617 Engine is a straight-five diesel engine that was produced between 1974 and 1991. It is widely regarded as one of the most reliable engines ever built, known for its durability and longevity.

Displacement: 3.0 liters (2,996 cc)

Cylinders: Inline, 5 cylinders

Max Power: 80-125 horsepower

Max Torque: 137-184 lb-ft

Fuel Type: Diesel
Mercedes-Benz OM617 Engine in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable engine of all time
- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable engine ever made
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26
votes
Volkswagen 1.9 TDI Engine

The 1.9 TDI engine is a diesel engine produced by Volkswagen. It is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and low emissions. It was used in vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta.
Volkswagen 1.9 TDI Engine in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable engine of all time
5

21
votes
Ford 300 Inline Six Engine

Ford Motor Company

The Ford 300 inline six engine is known for its durability and longevity. It was used in a variety of vehicles, including pickup trucks and vans.
The Ford 300 Inline Six Engine, also known as the Ford Big Six, is a legendary and highly reliable engine produced by Ford Motor Company. It was first introduced in 1965 and remained in production until 1996. This engine is known for its durability, simplicity, and impressive torque output.

Displacement: 4.9L (300 cubic inches)

Cylinder Configuration: Inline-six

Power Output: ranging from 95 to 150 horsepower

Torque Output: ranging from 270 to 315 lb-ft

Fuel System: Carbureted or fuel-injected, depending on the model year
Ford 300 Inline Six Engine in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most reliable engine ever made
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15
votes
Toyota 22RE Engine

Toyota Motor Corporation

The 22RE engine is a reliable and durable engine produced by Toyota. It was used in vehicles like the Toyota Pickup and 4Runner.
The Toyota 22RE engine is a four-cylinder, fuel-injected, overhead camshaft (OHC) engine that has gained a reputation for being one of the most reliable engines ever built. It was designed for use in various Toyota vehicles from 1981 to 1995.

Displacement: 2.4 liters

Cylinder arrangement: Inline-four

Valvetrain: Single overhead cam (SOHC)

Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Power output: 96 horsepower at 4,800 RPM
7

14
votes
General Motors LS Engine

General Motors

The LS engine is a series of V8 engines produced by General Motors. It is known for its power, reliability, and ability to handle high levels of boost. It was used in vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro.
The General Motors LS engine is a highly regarded and widely used V8 engine that is known for its reliability, performance, and versatility. It has been produced by General Motors since 1995 and continues to be in production today.

Engine Type: V8

Displacement: Various options ranging from 4.8L to 7.0L

Power Output: Ranges from approximately 250 to 650 horsepower

Torque Output: Ranges from approximately 300 to 650 lb-ft

Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum
8

13
votes
Cummins 6BT Engine

Cummins Inc.

The 6BT engine is a diesel engine produced by Cummins. It is known for its durability, reliability, and ability to handle high levels of power. It was used in vehicles like the Dodge Ram pickup truck.
The Cummins 6BT Engine is a highly regarded and widely recognized diesel engine known for its exceptional reliability and durability. With a strong reputation for its longevity and robust performance, it has become one of the most popular choices in various applications, including automotive, marine, and industrial use.

Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement: 5.9 liters

Power Output: 160-215 horsepower

Torque: 400-440 lb-ft

Compression Ratio: 17.5:1
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2
votes
BMW M50 Engine

Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW)

The M50 engine is a six-cylinder engine produced by BMW. It is known for its reliability, smoothness, and impressive power output. It was used in vehicles like the BMW 3 Series.
The BMW M50 engine is a six-cylinder inline petrol engine that was designed and produced by BMW. It is known for its reliability, durability, and smooth performance.

Aspiration: Naturally aspirated

Compression ratio: 10.5:1 to 11.3:1

Engine type: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement: 2.5 to 3.2 liters

Valvetrain: DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
BMW M50 Engine in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most reliable engine of all time
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9
votes
Mazda Rotary Engine

Felix Wankel

The rotary engine is a unique engine design produced by Mazda. It is known for its smoothness, high-revving capability, and ability to produce high levels of power in a small package. It was used in vehicles like the Mazda RX-7.
The Mazda Rotary Engine, also known as the Wankel engine, is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a unique rotary design. It was developed by Felix Wankel, a German engineer, in the 1950s. Unlike traditional reciprocating piston engines, the rotary engine uses a rotor in a triangular shape that revolves around an eccentric shaft, resulting in a compact and lightweight design with high power output.

Engine Type: Rotary engine

Number of Rotors: Usually 2 or 3

Chamber Capacity: Observed ranges from 573 cc to 1,962 cc

Power Output: Varies between models; can exceed 250 horsepower in high-performance versions

Compactness: The rotary engine is known for its compact size and light weight

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Discussion

Ranking factors for reliable engine

Durability

A reliable engine should be able to withstand years of use and abuse without breaking down or needing major repairs.
Efficiency

A reliable engine should be able to operate efficiently, using fuel and other resources effectively to minimize wear and tear and maximize performance.
Performance

A reliable engine should be able to deliver consistent and strong performance, whether driving in varied terrain or extreme weather conditions.
Maintenance

A reliable engine should be easy to maintain and repair, with parts that are readily available and affordable.
Longevity

A reliable engine should have a long lifespan, offering many years of trouble-free use.
User Reviews

Additionally, it's important to take into account user reviews and experiences, which can provide valuable insight into the reliability and durability of a specific engine model.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable engine ever built. 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!

Statistics

1802 views
177 votes
10 ranked items

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.

More information on most reliable engine ever built

When it comes to engines, reliability is key. The most reliable engine ever built is the holy grail of automotive enthusiasts and engineers alike. Over the years, many engines have earned a reputation for being dependable and long-lasting. From the classic inline-six engines of the past to the modern day hybrid powertrains, there are plenty of examples of engines that have stood the test of time. But which one takes the crown? Join us as we explore the contenders and determine the most reliable engine ever built.