Top 5 MOST RELIABLE engines that will LAST FOREVER (2025)!

[@AilaniMadden]

The Ford 300 cubic inch inline six is known for its exceptional reliability.

[@CookeZachery]

Any engine equipped with a turbo tends to be less reliable, as the turbo is likely to fail before the engine itself.

[@AilaniMadden]

Hey, I get where you’re coming from, and the Ford 300 is definitely a solid workhorse, but let’s be real-it’s no muscle car engine. Muscle cars are about big V8s, raw power, and street dominance. The 300 is tough, but it was built for trucks, not tearing up the quarter-mile. Reliable? Sure. But it can’t touch the roar of a 427 or the punch of a 428 Cobra Jet

[@AdelynDodson]

The Ford 300 inline six is a beast when it comes to reliability. It was built tough, designed to last for miles without major issues. Plus, it’s got a great low-end torque, making it perfect for those who want a solid, dependable engine. It’s not flashy, but it’s definitely one of the most underrated powerplants Ford ever made. A true workhorse for sure

[@CookeZachery]

@@AdelynDodson Hey, gotta disagree with you there. The Ford 300 inline-six is legendary for its reliability without a turbo-it’s a naturally aspirated workhorse. Slapping a turbo on it may boost power, but it’s not the engine’s core design or claim to fame.

[@AdelynDodson]

@@CookeZachery ... The Ford 300’s reliability and torque are legendary, no doubt, but adding a turbo doesn’t take away from that-it builds on it. Turbocharging doesn’t change its DNA as a workhorse; it just unleashes untapped potential while keeping that bulletproof core intact. Plenty of gearheads have proven it can handle the boost and still run strong.

[@rickster4455]

Chevy LS3. No variable lifters to go wrong, just normal roller cam. No long cam drives or blowers, just straight up 6.2 liter power and torque over 420 of each.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

Thank you for your comment... The Chevy LS3 is a masterpiece of straightforward engineering-just pure, reliable power. With its 6.2-liter displacement, over 420 hp, and matching torque, this engine embodies everything we love about American muscle: raw, unfiltered performance and a no-nonsense design. Whether it's on the track or the street, the LS3 is all about delivering that adrenaline-pumping experience muscle car fans crave. Plus, its versatility makes it a favorite for swaps and builds, proving that Chevy nailed it with this one. What do you think makes the LS3 a standout in the world of V8s? Are you team LS3, or do you have another favorite? Let us know in the comments below! And remember, we’ve got tons of American muscle car content waiting for you-don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the passion alive. Have a fantastic day, and Happy New Year

[@AilaniMadden]

I hear ya on the LS3 being a solid, straightforward engine, but let’s not forget there’s more to the story. Those long cam drives and variable lifters in modern engines bring efficiency and versatility the LS3 just doesn’t match. Don’t get me wrong-420+ horsepower is impressive, but muscle cars are about pushing boundaries, and tech like blowers takes performance to the next level.

[@CookeZachery]

The LS3 is a beast with that 6.2L of pure, reliable muscle. No fancy tech to worry about, just raw power and torque, and that roller cam setup makes it so much easier to maintain. It’s the kind of engine you can count on to get the job done, day in and day out. Plus, it has that iconic Chevy sound that just screams American muscle

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@@AilaniMadden You make an excellent point about modern engine tech, and while the LS3 shines for its simplicity and raw power, advancements like variable valve timing and forced induction truly push boundaries. That’s the beauty of muscle cars-they’re constantly evolving. Blowers, like on the LS9 or Hellcat engines, add that next-level punch, taking performance into the stratosphere. Still, the LS3’s reliability, 6.2L displacement, and swap-friendly design keep it legendary in the V8 world.

[@johnmarshjr928]

That’s right just replace the needle bearings, got a Texas speed stage 2 cam kit in mine and it sees 65-6800 rpm’s when I play with it occasionally.

[@briangogel2863]

While talking about the Ford straight six they show video of a Ford V eight.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@briangogel2863 thank you for your comment... The Ford straight-six is indeed one of the most reliable engines, and it deserves its time in the spotlight. While the video showcased a Ford V8 for visuals, it’s a reminder of Ford’s legacy of powerhouse engines-whether it’s the smooth durability of the straight-six or the raw muscle of the V8. What’s your favorite Ford engine story? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to explore more American Muscle Car legends on our channel. Like, share, and subscribe for more car history and horsepower nostalgia Have a great day, and Happy New Year

[@AdelynDodson]

The Ford straight-six is an underrated powerhouse in its own right, but when they show a V8 in the video, it’s like they’re overshadowing the unique charm of that six-cylinder. The straight-six in Fords, especially in the 60s, had a ton of character, and though the V8 gets all the glory, the six wasn’t just a stepping stone-it had its own muscle and sound.

[@AilaniMadden]

I totally get where you're coming from, but let’s pump the brakes for a sec. The Ford straight-six and V8 are both iconic, but they each have their own stories to tell. Mixing footage might seem off, but maybe they were highlighting the evolution of Ford’s engines?

[@AdelynDodson]

150-200K miles is decent but not exceptional. With modern technology and proper maintenance, most engines surpass this range easily, making it more of a baseline than a standout achievement. Maintenance, habits, and quality are key to pushing longevity

[@AilaniMadden]

Yes...That means my dad 2004 Hemi-powered Ram, with 167,000 miles, is actually considered very reliable.

[@CJColvin]

​@AilaniMadden I had a 2011 Ford F150 with a 5.0L Coyote V8 in it with 163,000 miles on it still going strong but was burning oil while my old truck (a 1996 Ford F150 with a 5.0L (302) Windsor V8 in it) has 211,000 miles on it and still going strong, the only things I replaced on my truck was the starter, the rear fuel pump, and the power steering megunisum but other than that mostly was just simple maintenance, took out the transmission fluid just to get rid of the shuttering it was making and it hasn't had a problem ever since.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@AdelynDodson Great point Longevity today definitely depends on good maintenance and solid engineering, but let's not forget the legends! Engines like the Chrysler 426 HEMI, Chevy’s LS Series, and Ford’s 5.0 Coyote V8 are powerhouses known to roar past 200K miles with proper care. It’s not just about the mileage; it’s about the legacy they carry. American muscle cars are built for both performance and endurance-true icons of the road What’s your all-time favorite engine? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to celebrate the muscle car legacy Wishing you a great day and a Happy New Year

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@CJColvin Wow, what a fantastic testament to the durability of Ford's V8 engines The Coyote 5.0L and the classic 302 Windsor are true examples of Ford's engineering excellence. It's amazing to hear that your 1996 F150 has surpassed 211,000 miles with minimal repairs-that’s real old-school toughness The transmission fix you described shows how staying on top of maintenance can make all the difference.

[@AdelynDodson]

@@CJColvin The 5.0L Windsor V8 is a classic and one of the most reliable engines Ford ever made. I’ve heard similar stories from other gearheads about how bulletproof those old 302s can be. You really can't beat simple, solid maintenance like that.

[@CharlieWhitewolf]

My Group is the 2001 2.0 4 cyl. Dodge neon. has 1 million miles. and the 470 Detroit has 2.8 million miles. This engine started out in my 1996 Freightliner FLD. and I do have the 300 inline 6 Ford with 800k miles on it. Started out in my life in a 1981 Ford F150. Bodies fall apart engines get transferred to the next body. The only one in this group that still has the original body is the Neon. But it really needs a new body.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

Wow, @CharlieWhitewolf, that’s some impressive mileage and dedication Your engines are living proof of the legendary durability of American engineering. The 470 Detroit and the Ford 300 inline-6 are absolute workhorses, and it's incredible how you’ve kept them running strong across multiple bodies. The Neon hanging in there with the original body? That’s loyalty! What about you, muscle car fans? Got any stories of engines that just keep going? Share your tales in the comments! Let’s keep the love for American engineering alive. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more amazing stories Have a great day and Happy New Year

[@AilaniMadden]

Impressive mileage on those engines, but let’s be real-none of these scream American Muscle! Muscle cars are all about power, style, and a rumble that shakes the ground. A Neon or a Freightliner just doesn’t hit that note. I respect your dedication to keeping those engines alive, but for us muscle car fans, it’s all about that raw V8 torque and iconic designs that never go out of style

[@CookeZachery]

respect for keeping those engines running strong, but I gotta disagree. Muscle cars are about raw power and iconic style, not just durability. A Neon or a 470 Detroit in a Freightliner ain’t what gets the heart racing like a roaring big-block V8 under a classic American hood. Keep those engines alive, but muscle cars are about more than miles-they’re about soul and horsepower.

[@CharlieWhitewolf]

@@AilaniMadden That neon can run mid 11's in the quarter and 180k of those miles back when it was new it was on the street/strip. Got tired of breaking motor mounts and going through clutches and breaking CV axles. There wasn't much respect for those cars, so parts were hard to get for that kind of thing back then. Never raced the Freightliner but when the 550 Detroit came out nobody showed it to be better. I get 14 mpg with it and it will haul anything I put behind it up and down any mountain in the US. As for the Ford 300 it could bout out pull the Freightliner and has pulled it out of the mud on many occasions lol. I do have a 1991 Honda prelude si with the 2.1 in it still running today. I kind of like the low power racing. However if it's muscle. I built a 1979 Mustang GT. to a 331 stroker motor on juice. Runs low 10s and with normal maintenance. I haven't got back in that engine in 22 years after building it. But can't really call that a Factory build to last forever. considering the cam and pistons were custom built and custom crank from some crazy guy that really knew what he was doing and only cost me a case of beer. Lol. I am playing with the Dodge Durango 4.7 now. However. I bought this thing for 40 bucks and it has lasted me the last 10 years. It's a trooper so far. Burn the tires at 70 mph punch and up to 440 so far in computer work and bolt ons. Trying to keep the motor as stock as possible for as long as I can. All my engines I like to keep stock with bolt ons. Well except the 331 of course. With the correct tune, and the right kind of driving skills. It's amazing what you can pull off. and most importantly. Don't put yourself in a situation where you know you can't Win.

[@CharlieWhitewolf]

@@AilaniMadden To be fair the title says Top 5 most reliable engines that will last forever. Lol Didn't say much about muscle. But I do agree. Nothing like a Good lope that makes your spine tingle and the world disappear. I drove a friend of mine 69 nova, 454 with a blower. Got pulled over eventually, as the cops asked me why I didn't pull over 5 miles back I told him. He didn't exist in my mind at that time. lmao To be fair I pulled over and let them catch up. lol That's another long lived engine. My friend built that car back in 2000 and it still runs today. I think he has had to rebuild the blower a few times or do something with it and replace heads but the block is still the same. 90 ish transmissions and rearends later. lol

[@FredPena-rd5cf]

The Mazda 1.8L motor they put in those miatas will run forever with regular oil changes and the timing belt maintenance @ 60 to 100k miles. I have one and it runs so good at 104k miles. I have many acquaintances with miatas that have well over 200k on theirs and they'restill running strong. A very efficient and dependable engine.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Mazda 1.8L motor-sounds like a solid little engine! It's impressive to see how those Miatas can rack up the miles with proper care. That level of reliability is something any car enthusiast can appreciate, even us die-hard American muscle fans. But let’s talk about power and heart-pounding performance! When it comes to engines that define an era, muscle cars deliver a symphony of raw horsepower and torque. Classics like the Chevy 350 small block, Ford 302 V8, or Mopar 440 Magnum have powered legends, some still running strong decades later. We love hearing all about engines that keep roaring, whether it’s a trusty 4-cylinder or a fire-breathing V8! What about you? Do you have a favorite American muscle engine or car? Let us know in the comments, share your stories, and don’t forget to subscribe for more muscle car greatness! Have a great day, and Happy New Year

[@AilaniMadden]

That Mazda 1.8L is efficient, but it’s no V8 legend. Engines like the Ford 427 FE or Chevy 454 don’t just run-they roar, delivering insane power and torque. Sure, Miatas can hit 200K, but classic American muscle has been outliving generations, still burning rubber at car meets today. Dependable is nice, but nothing beats raw horsepower and that thunderous exhaust note

[@FredPena-rd5cf]

@AilaniMadden sure. I posted on the title of the video. Not the video. If its talking about the big motors, fine.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@@FredPena-rd5cf Thanks for your follow-up! It’s always great to hear the perspectives of fellow enthusiasts, whether it’s about the Mazda 1.8L or the roaring beasts of American Muscle! While small engines like the Miata’s have their place, there’s nothing like the rumble of a big-block V8 to make your heart race. Think of classics like the Chevy 427, Ford 429 Cobra Jet, or the Mopar 426 HEMI-each engine a masterpiece of raw power, defining an era when horsepower ruled the streets. We’d love to know-what’s your favorite American muscle car engine? Is it a high-revving small-block or a torque-packed big-block? Drop your thoughts in the comments! And to all muscle car fans out there, remember to subscribe, share with your fellow gearheads, and keep the spirit of American Muscle alive. Have a fantastic day and a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and high-octane fun

[@bigjimtenbillion]

Gm 2.2l iron duke, indestructible Gm 3.8 ( 3800) best v6 gm ever made Gm 5.7l (350) best V8 easy to work on hard to kill Ford 5.0 ( 302) Fords best engine Chrysler/dodge hemi

[@KeithGreene-k1v]

The GM 3.8 is a powerhouse - reliable, easy to maintain, and with tons of torque. The 350 Chevy small block is legendary for good reason, a perfect blend of power and simplicity. The 302 Ford is equally impressive - a solid engine that’s tough to beat for performance and tuning potential. And you can't forget the Hemi; Chrysler's got a real muscle icon there.

[@CookeZachery]

@@KeithGreene-k1v I gotta disagree here, buddy! The Iron Duke might be tough, but it's no powerhouse. The 3800? Solid, but the Buick Nailhead V6 deserves a nod. As for the 350, reliable? Sure. Best? Nah-try the LT1 or LS6. Ford’s 302 is legendary, but the FE 427 ruled the streets. And the HEMI? Pure dominance-426 Elephant tops all! Muscle car greatness goes way beyond durability-it's about raw performance

[@KeithGreene-k1v]

@@CookeZachery I see your passion, but I gotta stand my ground, buddy! The Iron Duke's about durability, not muscle. The 3.8? A torque beast that punches above its weight. The 350? Legendary for a reason-reliable AND powerful. Ford’s 302 shines in performance and versatility. The FE 427 and HEMI are kings, no doubt, but greatness isn’t just raw power; it’s the balance of power, reliability, and legacy.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@bigjimtenbillion What a fantastic lineup of engines you’ve listed The GM 2.2L Iron Duke truly deserves its reputation as a workhorse, and the 3800 V6? A legend for its reliability and versatility! The 5.7L (350) is hands-down one of the most iconic small-blocks ever, powering so many of our favorite rides over the decades. And the Ford 5.0 (302)? A masterpiece that helped define muscle car history-whether in the classic Mustangs or street-rod builds, it's an enthusiast's dream. Lastly, we can’t talk muscle without the Chrysler/Dodge HEMI, the heart and soul of pure Mopar power Muscle car fans, what are your all-time favorite engines or builds featuring these powerplants? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us on our journey to celebrate the best of American muscle cars. Wishing you an awesome day and a Happy New Year

[@KeithGreene-k1v]

Claiming 200,000 miles is a pinnacle of durability overlooks modern advancements. Today, many engines can double or triple that with proper care. A truly durable engine thrives well beyond milestones once deemed extraordinary.

[@CJColvin]

The Coyote V8 in my 2011 F150 had 163,000 miles on it and (while still going strong) it was burning oil like no tomorrow while my 1996 F150 with a 5.0L (302) Windsor V8 has 211,000 miles on it and still going strong with no issues.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@KeithGreene-k1v Great point Modern engineering has indeed pushed engine durability to incredible heights. Back in the day, hitting 200,000 miles on a muscle car engine like the Chevy 350 or Ford 302 was a badge of honor. Now, with advanced materials and precision machining, engines like the LS series or Coyote V8 can last 300,000+ miles with the right care. But let’s not forget, true muscle car durability isn’t just about miles-it’s about power, performance, and legacy. What’s your pick for the most reliable engine? Let us know in the comments, share this video, and don’t forget to subscribe Have a great day, and Happy New Year...

[@KeithGreene-k1v]

@@CJColvin The 5.0 Windsor is a beast of an engine, known for its durability. It's tough to beat the simplicity and reliability of that old-school V8. The Coyote's a powerhouse, but yeah, it can burn oil as it gets older-just part of the more modern engines pushing harder for power. Still, I bet that '96 5.0's been a workhorse. Those old engines just keep going

[@CJColvin]

@KeithGreene-k1v Totally agree 100%

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@@CJColvin thank you so much for your comment, have a great day. If you have more information, pls share with us...

[@frankbenanti1684]

The Ford 427 FE lemans motor of the mid Sixties could run all out for 12 hours or more!

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@frankbenanti1684 Thanks for bringing up the legendary Ford 427 FE Le Mans engine this masterpiece was built to dominate, and its endurance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the mid-'60s is nothing short of iconic. With its forged internals, high-nickel block, and relentless power, it proved that American engineering could go toe-to-toe with the best in the world. The GT40, armed with this powerhouse, not only went the distance but humiliated Ferrari with four consecutive Le Mans victories We’d love to hear from everyone: What’s your favorite American muscle car engine, and why? Drop your thoughts below, share this video with your fellow gearheads, and don’t forget to subscribe for more muscle car greatness Have an awesome day, and a very Happy New Year to all our muscle car enthusiasts!

[@ludedude5228]

Slant 6 Chrysler 300,000 miles easy "

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@ludedude5228 You’re absolutely right The legendary Slant 6 from Chrysler is a workhorse that just keeps on going-300,000 miles easy, and some even clock more! It’s not just about longevity; this engine was a game-changer in its time, offering a mix of durability and performance that won the hearts of gearheads everywhere. Whether it was powering Darts, Valiants, or even trucks, the Slant 6 proved why it’s one of the toughest engines ever built. And let’s not forget, this straight-six had the perfect blend of torque and reliability, making it a favorite for everyday driving and weekend projects. What’s your favorite memory with the Slant 6? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to explore more iconic engines and classic American muscle cars right here on our channel. Like, share, and subscribe to keep the nostalgia alive. Wishing you a great day and a Happy New Year

[@jimmymccormick142]

Ford power forever baby a real Chevy and dodge killer the best never rest they just keep getting better has a Ford blu by you later come get some my coyote loves to eat

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

@jimmymccormick142 Now that’s the kind of Ford pride we love to see! The Coyote engine is a beast-high-revving, powerful, and ready to dominate any street or strip. Ford’s engineering has definitely made the Blue Oval a force to be reckoned with, from classic muscle like the Boss 429 to modern monsters like the Shelby GT500. Chevy and Dodge fans better stay sharp because Ford power just keeps climbing higher What’s your favorite Ford muscle car of all time? Let’s keep the Ford vs. Chevy vs. Dodge rivalry alive in the comments-tell us what you think! And to all muscle car fans out there, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American muscle car content. Join us as we dive deep into the legends of horsepower and history

[@rockycassiano4756]

AI video. video shows a V8 while talking about a straight 6.............. AI smokes dope.........

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

Thanks for pointing that out, @rockycassiano4756 We’re always striving to deliver the most accurate and engaging content for all the muscle car enthusiasts out there, so your feedback means a lot. Mixing up a V8 and a straight-6? That’s definitely something we need to steer clear of-kind of like putting bias-ply tires on a drag racer, right? Rest assured, we’ll keep our engines tuned and our facts sharper moving forward. Your passion keeps us motivated to improve, so keep the comments coming! Let us know if there’s a specific muscle car or engine you’d like to see featured. To everyone watching, hit the like button, share your thoughts, and subscribe to dive deeper into the world of American Muscle Cars! Let’s build this community of gearheads together. Wishing you a great day and a Happy New Year

[@MrTheta..]

Most of the engines showed as the 300 inline 6, were not the 300. Theybwere V8 engines. Lol

[@Wuggieee]

Sbc is the worst motor ever made.

[@MuscleCarMasters68]

Hey @Wuggieee! Thanks for sharing your opinion-love the passion! But calling the SBC (Small Block Chevy) the "worst motor" might stir up some controversy in the car community. Let's not forget, the SBC is one of the most iconic and versatile engines in automotive history. With its reliable design, simplicity, and massive aftermarket support, it powered everything from legendary muscle cars like the Camaro and Chevelle to pickup trucks and hot rods. It’s been around since 1955 and has a well-earned reputation for durability and performance when maintained right. What do you all think, muscle car fans? Is the SBC a legend or overrated? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this video with your fellow gearheads, and don’t forget to subscribe for more American muscle car goodness Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and great rides