In a world dominated by rapid technological change and electrification, there are engineering creations that refuse to age. The authoritative publication Autocar has compiled a list of the 10 longest-produced engines in history – power units that have outlived entire generations of cars and continue to work, some of which literally to this day. These engines are a true benchmark for durability and simplicity.
It is striking that the American giant Ford dominates the ranking, proving that the best innovation is sometimes unshakable reliability.
Ford Modular V8 (1990 – production continues): This V8 engine, whose volume varies between 4.6 and 5.8 liters, is an example of a workhorse. Starting life at Ford's Windsor, Canada plant, it remains popular to this day, continuing to be widely installed in iconic models such as the F-Series pickup truck. Its larger 6.8-liter V10 version powered the Super Duty heavy-duty pickup truck.
Ford Windsor V8 (1961 – production continues): Another legend. With its displacements of 3.6 to 5.8 liters, the Windsor V8 debuted in the fourth generation Ford Fairlane, and later gave life to iconic machines such as the Sunbeam Tiger and the legendary AC Cobra. Today, although it is not installed in new cars, this engine continues to be actively produced as an aftermarket part for tuning, restoration and specialized projects.
It is impossible not to mention the Ford Kent, which was produced without interruption from 1959 to 2002 – a true long-liver.
Chevrolet – The 50s Veteran
One of the most impressive examples in the ranking is the Chevrolet Small Block. Having begun its life in 1955, this engine has not only exceeded all life expectations, but is still in production today! This is a testament to a brilliant original design that has proven easy to adapt and modernize over the decades.
The list also includes names with a pronounced aristocratic origin:
Rolls-Royce L-Series (1959-2020): This engine has powered some of the most luxurious and elegant cars in the world, demonstrating that longevity is not only a trademark of mass-produced models. Its production ended relatively recently after a 61-year run.
Rover V8 (1967-2004): Although it bore the Rover name, this lightweight aluminum V8 was actually a modified Buick design. It became the main power unit for the British automotive industry, powering everything – from Range Rover to sports cars.
European and American super-durable engines
The ranking concludes with a few European and American models that have proven their unwavering reliability:
Buick V6 (1962-2009): Almost half a century of life for this flexible American V6.
AMC Straight Six (1964-2006): A classic American inline six-cylinder engine, valued for its simplicity and robustness.
Renault Cléon-Fonte (1962-2004): One of the most popular and durable European engines, powering countless Renault and Dacia models.
These engines remain a living lesson in engineering: sometimes the most successful design is the one that is so well thought out from the start that it is impossible to radically improve it, only slightly improved in time.
Here is the full list of the most durable engines according to Autocar: