When it comes to performance cars, durability is just as important as speed. Some high-powered vehicles are not only fast but also built to last, handling high mileage without sacrificing reliability. In this list, you’ll find 25 performance cars known for their ability to go the distance, making them a smart choice for both driving enthusiasts and long-term car owners.
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Porsche 911
Renowned for its engineering excellence, the Porsche 911 is a testament to German precision. Its reliable flat-six engine is known to last well over 200,000 miles with proper care. Advanced materials and superior build quality allow the 911 to remain durable over time, while routine maintenance ensures its performance doesn’t degrade even after long use.
Honda S2000
The Honda S2000’s lightweight design and high-revving 2.0-liter engine make it a fan favorite, but it’s also known for reliability. Many enthusiasts report their S2000s passing the 200,000-mile mark without significant issues. Its simple, robust engineering and excellent Honda parts availability contribute to its longevity, even after years of hard driving.
Chevrolet Corvette C6
The Corvette C6 is powered by the LS3 V8, a bulletproof engine known for its durability. Many Corvette owners enjoy the car well past 150,000 miles without major issues, thanks to its solid construction and reliable drivetrain. It’s also relatively easy to maintain, making it a long-lasting choice for performance car fans.
Ford Mustang GT
The Ford Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V8 engine, known as the Coyote, is built for both power and endurance. With proper maintenance, many Mustangs reach high mileage without trouble. The solid design of this iconic muscle car, coupled with a strong aftermarket support, ensures it can handle the long haul.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Famous for its lightweight, nimble design, the Mazda Miata is also built to last. Its 2.0-liter engine is simple yet effective, allowing many Miatas to exceed 200,000 miles with regular upkeep. The car’s simplicity is key to its reliability, as fewer complex systems mean less can go wrong.
BMW M3 (E46)
The E46 M3 is considered one of the best-driving BMWs, and it’s also known for its longevity. The S54 inline-six engine, though high-revving, is capable of high mileage when properly cared for. Many enthusiasts keep these cars running past 150,000 miles, thanks to regular maintenance and quality parts.
Nissan 350Z
Powered by the VQ35DE engine, the Nissan 350Z is a reliable sports car that can handle high mileage. Its strong V6 engine is robust and durable, with many examples reaching well over 150,000 miles. Regular maintenance is key, but this car’s simple, reliable design makes it a good long-term choice.
Audi S4 (B8)
The Audi S4 B8 features a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that, when maintained, can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. With all-wheel-drive and high build quality, this performance sedan is built for both speed and longevity, offering a balance of luxury and endurance.
Dodge Challenger R/T
The Challenger R/T’s 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine is designed for durability. Known for its power and toughness, the Challenger can easily surpass high mileage if taken care of. Its straightforward construction and strong engine make it a reliable performance car that can stand the test of time.
Subaru WRX STI
The Subaru WRX STI is known for its all-wheel-drive system and durable boxer engine, both of which contribute to its long-term reliability. Many WRX STI models see high mileage due to their rugged construction, and they’re often used in demanding conditions, proving their durability over time.
Toyota Supra (A80)
The Toyota Supra, especially the fourth generation (A80), is legendary for its durability. The 2JZ-GTE engine is considered one of the most reliable engines ever made, capable of handling high horsepower modifications and still running well past 200,000 miles without issue.
Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG
With its hand-built 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, the E55 AMG delivers both performance and longevity. Known for its robust engineering, many E55 AMGs continue to perform exceptionally even after crossing the 150,000-mile mark, making it a solid long-term performance car.
Chevrolet Camaro SS
The Camaro SS’s 6.2-liter V8 engine is built to last, with many owners reporting high mileage without major mechanical failures. Its durability is bolstered by a strong transmission and simple engineering, allowing the Camaro to thrive even after years of use.
Lexus IS F
The Lexus IS F pairs high performance with the brand’s reputation for reliability. Its 5.0-liter V8 is capable of running for hundreds of thousands of miles when properly maintained, and Lexus’s focus on quality ensures that the IS F remains a reliable performance option for the long term.
Acura NSX (First Generation)
The first-generation Acura NSX is a supercar with Honda-level reliability. Its 3.0-liter V6 engine is known for its endurance, and many NSXs have surpassed 200,000 miles without losing their performance edge. Its reputation for quality makes it a reliable choice among enthusiasts.
BMW 335i (E90)
The BMW 335i (E90) comes with a turbocharged inline-six engine that, while powerful, is also capable of high mileage when cared for. Its robust design and advanced engineering make it a solid performance car that can go the distance with regular upkeep.
Ford Fiesta ST
A small but mighty performance car, the Ford Fiesta ST is known for its nimble handling and durability. Its 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is efficient yet capable of high mileage when maintained, offering longevity alongside a fun driving experience.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Golf GTI has been a reliable choice for performance enthusiasts for decades. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is simple but effective, allowing many GTIs to surpass 150,000 miles without major mechanical problems, making it both practical and fun to drive.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is built with a durable drivetrain and strong turbocharged engine, making it a reliable performance car. Known for its rally heritage, the Evolution X is designed to handle tough conditions and high mileage, often exceeding 150,000 miles.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Genesis Coupe offers affordable performance with a reliable V6 engine that can last for years. Many owners report high mileage without major issues, thanks to its solid construction and straightforward engineering, making it a great long-term performance option.
Jaguar XKR
The Jaguar XKR’s supercharged V8 engine offers both power and longevity, with many examples remaining reliable well past 100,000 miles. Though a luxury sports car, the XKR’s build quality and regular maintenance keep it performing at its peak for years.
Audi TT
The Audi TT is a compact, stylish performance car that handles high mileage well when properly maintained. Its solid engineering and reliable turbocharged engine make it a popular choice for drivers looking for long-term reliability without sacrificing performance.
Infiniti G37 Coupe
The Infiniti G37 Coupe’s V6 engine is known for its durability, with many models surpassing 150,000 miles without major issues. Its simple yet powerful design allows it to remain a reliable performance car for those looking for longevity.
Porsche Cayman
The Porsche Cayman, much like its 911 sibling, is known for its precision engineering and reliability. Many Caymans remain on the road after hitting high mileage, thanks to their well-built flat-six engines and robust construction.
Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
These twin models, co-developed by Toyota and Subaru, are known for their balance of fun and reliability. With a 2.0-liter boxer engine and lightweight design, many 86/BRZ models can handle high mileage with ease, making them an affordable and durable performance option.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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