Mar. 07, 2024
Machinery
In the realm of automobiles, the longevity and durability of car engines are a testament to engineering excellence. Many car enthusiasts and owners value a vehicle’s ability to stand the test of time. The lifespan of an engine can be a decisive factor in purchasing decisions and an indicator of a manufacturer’s commitment to quality. In this article, we delve into the world of automotive engineering to rank and celebrate the longest-living car engines.
Before we explore the specific engines that have withstood the test of time, it’s crucial to understand what factors contribute to an engine’s longevity.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the longest-living car engines that have earned their place in automotive history:
1. Toyota’s 22R Engine
Toyota’s 22R engine is often hailed as one of the most robust and long-lasting engines ever produced. Introduced in the late 1970s, it powered various Toyota models for decades. Owners have reported these engines regularly exceeding 300,000 miles, and some even reaching half a million miles with proper maintenance.
2. Mercedes-Benz OM617 Diesel Engine
The Mercedes-Benz OM617 diesel engine, a stalwart of the 1980s, is renowned for its longevity. It’s not uncommon to find vehicles equipped with this engine still running smoothly with well over 500,000 miles on the odometer. This engine’s reputation for durability has made it a favourite among enthusiasts.
3. Volvo Redblock Engine
Volvo’s Redblock engine family, produced from the late 1960s into the 2000s, is celebrated for its resilience. Many of these engines have reached the 300,000-mile mark and beyond, a testament to Volvo’s commitment to reliability.
4. Honda’s B-Series Engine
Honda’s B-series engines, found in various models, are known for their durability and performance. These engines have gained a reputation for running smoothly even after crossing the 300,000-mile threshold. Proper maintenance remains a key factor in their longevity.
5. Ford’s Windsor V8 Engine
The Ford Windsor V8 engine, widely used in various Ford models since the 1960s, is a classic example of American muscle. It’s not uncommon to find these engines with more than 200,000 miles and still performing admirably. Their enduring popularity among collectors and enthusiasts speaks to their long-lasting qualities.
While these five engines are renowned for their longevity, there are many others worth mentioning. Subaru’s EJ series, BMW’s M20 engine, and the Chevrolet Small Block V8 are all examples of engines known for their extended lifespan. Each of these engines has played a role in shaping the automotive landscape.
The longevity of car engines is not solely confined to vintage or older models. Modern engines are designed with the same principles of quality, efficiency, and durability. Improved manufacturing processes, better materials, and advanced engineering continue to extend the lifespan of engines in contemporary vehicles.
Manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru maintain their commitment to producing engines with impressive longevity. The introduction of hybrid and electric powertrains also presents an interesting dimension to the future of automotive longevity. Electric motors have fewer moving parts and may, in theory, last longer than traditional internal combustion engines.
Whether you drive a vintage car with a renowned engine or a modern vehicle, certain practices can help extend the life of your engine:
The longevity of car engines is a testament to the art and science of automotive engineering. The enduring reputation of engines like Toyota’s 22R and the Mercedes-Benz OM617 diesel engine, among others, demonstrates that a well-maintained engine can withstand the test of time.
Modern engines, too, are designed with longevity in mind, providing peace of mind to today’s drivers. As technology evolves, we may witness even longer-lasting powertrains, further shaping the landscape of the automotive industry. Regardless of the era, proper maintenance and responsible driving habits remain the keys to ensuring your car’s engine stands the test of time. Choose My Car brings the most interesting news to the readers with each article!
“If only everything in life was as reliable as Volkswagen” posited the famous 1987 advert for the Volkswagen Golf.
Similarly, Audi declares: “Vorsprung durch Technik.” Loosely translated, this means “advancement through technology” and both of these slogans are designed to instil a feeling of confidence in each company’s engineering prowess.
Unfortunately, however, the truth can be very different. Figures recently released by consumer warranty company Warranty Direct, show that Volkswagen, Audi and BMW make some of the least reliable engines on the market.
Audi came second-from-bottom in the engine reliability charts with one failure in every 27, beaten only by the now-defunct MG Rover.
It’s a poor showing for BMW’s Mini brand, too, coming in at third-from-bottom with one failure in every 40, while BMW themselves take up the seventh slot in between Peugeot and Renault with one in 45.
Volkswagen makes its appearance in the ninth-from-bottom position, with one in every 52 owners suffering an engine fault of some kind.
An Audi R8 with a minor overheating issue.Perhaps not surprisingly, it’s the Japanese, with the top spot taken by Honda. Only one in every 344 Honda owners have had engine trouble, with second-placed rival Toyota notching up just one in 171.
It’s not all doom and gloom for the European marques, though, with Mercedes-Benz taking third, followed closely by Volvo.
The Brits have something to be cheerful about, with Jaguar placed fifth and Land Rover in tenth – although in the interests of yin and yang we should note that JLR’s repair costs were considered very high, with one Range Rover Sport owner quoted nearly £15,000 to repair an engine failure.
The biggest surprise, however, comes in the form of seventh-placed Fiat who recorded a creditable one failure in 85, beating both Ford and Nissan.
Remember that next time an Audi salesman tries to convince you to sign on the dotted line…
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