By V8 engines have been the backbone of many mainstream vehicles, offering power and reliability without the exclusivity found in luxury or performance cars. These engines were built to serve, powering everyday vehicles while still packing enough punch to make them memorable. Below is a breakdown of some of the most iconic V8 engines from major mainstream automakers in the U.S.
10. Buick Fireball V8
Engine: 3.5-liter V8
Engine Block: Cast iron
Cylinder Heads: Cast iron
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
The Buick Fireball V8, also known as the “Nailhead” due to its unique vertical valve configuration, became an iconic engine for Buick. Despite the restrictive ports, the camshaft’s design allowed for better performance through increased lift and duration. The Fireball V8 was used in several Buick models, including the Roadmaster and Century, before being replaced by the larger Big Block V8s.
9. Cadillac L-Head V8
Engine: 5.1-liter V8
Engine Block: Cast iron/aluminum
Cylinder Heads: Cast iron/aluminum
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Introduced in 1914, the Cadillac L-Head V8 was the heart of Cadillac’s early V8 models. Its cross-plane crankshaft with a 90-degree offset helped it run smoother than many engines of its time. This engine powered early Cadillac legends like the Series 341 and V-63 and was one of the first mass-produced V8 engines in America.
8. Chrysler 5.7L HEMI V8
Engine: 5.7-liter V8
Engine Block: Cast iron
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
The third-generation HEMI V8 from Chrysler is one of the most iconic V8 engines in modern muscle car history. Initially released in 2003, this engine powered everything from Dodge’s Ram trucks to the Chrysler 300C and the Dodge Challenger. Known for its power and distinctive hemispherical combustion chambers, the HEMI V8 was a staple in Chrysler’s lineup until its recent retirement in favor of Stellantis’ Hurricane straight-six engine.
7. Fiat 8V Tipo 104 V8
Engine: 2.0-liter V8
Engine Block: Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum alloy
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Fiat’s Tipo 104 V8 powered the rare Fiat 8V sports car, a model produced in the early 1950s with only 114 units ever built. This engine, while not widely used across Fiat’s lineup, was known for its innovative aluminum construction and respectable output, especially for its time.
6. Genesis/Hyundai/Kia Tau T V8
Engine: 4.6-liter and 5.0-liter V8
Engine Block: Aluminum
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
The Tau V8 was Hyundai’s answer to the luxury sedan market, powering models like the Genesis G80 and Hyundai Genesis. With two displacement options, this engine family delivered solid performance and reliability from 2008 until its discontinuation in 2021. The larger 5.0-liter V8 was introduced to replace the smaller 4.6-liter variant and provided higher output and efficiency.
5. Lexus/Toyota UZ-FE V8
Engine: 4.0-liter to 4.7-liter V8
Engine Block: Aluminum
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
The Toyota UZ-FE V8, which powered models like the Lexus LS400 and Toyota 4Runner, earned a reputation for reliability and durability. Revered in the tuner community, this engine featured dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing, making it a versatile option for luxury sedans and SUVs alike.
4. Lincoln MEL V8
Engine: 6.3-liter to 7.6-liter V8
Engine Block: Cast iron
Cylinder Heads: Cast iron
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
The Lincoln MEL V8 was Lincoln’s answer to the growing demand for powerful engines in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Found in cars like the Lincoln Continental, this engine was known for its displacement and torque, making it a favorite for large luxury cars of the era.
3. Mitsubishi 8A8 V8
Engine: 4.5-liter V8
Engine Block: Aluminum
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum alloy
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Mitsubishi’s only V8 engine, the 8A8, was a rare sight. It powered the Proudia and Dignity models, both of which were exclusive to the Japanese market. Despite its short-lived production run, the 8A8 V8 remains a unique piece of Mitsubishi’s history.
2. Volkswagen EA898 V8
Engine: 4.0-liter V8
Engine Block: Cast iron
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum alloy
Aspiration: Turbocharged
The EA898 V8 diesel engine powered several high-end models across Volkswagen’s family, including the Audi SQ7 and Bentley Bentayga. With twin-turbocharging and impressive torque, this engine was a favorite for luxury SUVs and performance sedans.
1. Volvo B8444S V8
Engine: 4.4-liter to 5.0-liter V8
Engine Block: Aluminum
Cylinder Heads: Aluminum
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Volvo’s B8444S V8, produced in collaboration with Yamaha, was unique for its transverse configuration and adherence to emissions standards. Initially used in the Volvo XC90, this engine found its way into performance cars like the Noble M600, where it was twin-turbocharged for extra power.