Several innovations and upgrades have transformed the automotive industry since the last century. Some have gained a cult-like following due to their iconic roles in movies and pop culture. Some have dominated race tracks for years. Some are known for their reliability. Some are known for their mileage. Here are 18 vehicles that have broken records without breaking down:
Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+
The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ is a record-breaking vehicle that was the first to surpass 300 mph. This hypercar is powered by an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine that produces around 1,577 horsepower. Only 30 units exist, owned by high-profile citizens and the elite. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 2.4 seconds, going the distance without breaking down.
Mercedes-Benz W125 Rekordwagen
Launched in 1937 for the Grand Prix, the Mercedes-Benz W125 Rekordwagen is in the hall of fame. It broke records as the fastest sports car in the 1930s. Powered by a 5.6-liter V12 M125 engine, it produces around 736 horsepower. The vehicle showcased a teardrop design, advanced cooling systems, and a rear-mounted radiator. This vehicle’s record remained unbroken until 2017, revealing its potential and influence.
Tesla Model S Plaid
The Tesla Model S Plaid holds the record for its blistering acceleration in the EV segment. Apart from the Tesla Model S Plaid, only a few vehicles, such as the Lucid Air Sapphire, have reached such a performance. The Plaid accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 1.99 seconds, pinning everyone back to their seats. Powered by a tri-motor system, it produces 1,020 horsepower and offers a driving range of 396 horsepower.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is an off-road beast, holding records without breaking down. Production of the vehicle began in 1951, setting a record among the longest-production vehicles. In 2017, the modified version of the Cruiser driven by Carl Edwards reached a top speed of 230 mph, setting a new record for the fastest SUV. Capable of seating around eight passengers, it is an ideal family SUV.
Hennessey Venom F5
Among the top-rated performance cars in the industry, the Hennessey Venom F5 showcases record-breaking speed. Powered by a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, it reaches a top speed of 311 mph. With a lightweight construction and aerodynamic profile, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. Only 24 units of this vehicle have been produced to this day, making it highly exclusive.
Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost
The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was first introduced in 1907 and soon gained the title of the “Best Car in the World.” Comfort was a key feature, as it is in contempt times for the brand, featuring a stately grille. Powered by a 7.0-liter inline-6 engine paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, it set the foundation for the brand’s legacy.
Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is a versatile vehicle for urban landscapes and adventure. It is a record-breaking vehicle that showcases exceptional off-road prowess in all conditions. The off-road capabilities include the Terrain Response 2 system, electronic air suspension, and 35.4 inches of wade sensing. Equipped with a four-wheel drive, electronic aids, and locking differentials, it is a rugged ride.
Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut achieves a top speed of over 330 mph, a record-breaking performance. It competes with Bugatti, the fastest vehicle in the industry, and is leading in resilience and durability. Powered by a 5.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, it produces around 1,600 horsepower. The triplex suspension ensures a smooth ride, from an ergonomic seating arrangement to the performance cockpit.
Honda Civic (Type R)
Launched in 1972, the Honda Civic blends cutting-edge technology and performance. The Type R variant is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing around 306 horsepower. The vehicle holds numerous records, such as the front-wheel drive record at Mount Panorama in Australia. It also set numerous records in 2020 at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, surpassing some Ferrari models.
Volkswagen Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle is a cult classic, a vintage icon that has transformed the industry forever. It was the true “people’s car” and was among the first cars to be mass-produced. With a boxy design and simple round headlights, it displays moderate performance. Selling over 21 million units, the Beetle has evolved into a cultural and pop icon. Featured in many television shows and movies, it was highly durable.
Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe
The Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe has a rich legacy. It was a vehicle that achieved a top speed of 190 mph in the 1960s. Powered by a 427 cubic-inch V8 engine, it won races such as the 1960s Le Mans and the 1964 FIA World Sportscar Championship. It is the first American car to win the 1964 International Grand Touring Championship.
Volvo P1800
A fun and practical vehicle, the Volvo P1800 is the definition of durability in the automotive industry. It proves this by holding the record as the vehicle with the highest mileage in automotive history. The Volvo P1800, owned by Irv Gordon, set this record, purchased in 1966 and accounting for over 3.25 million miles. Featured in many series, such as “The Saint,” it has a reputation for durability.
Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo
The Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo is a remarkable race car with its advanced hybrid system. Powered by a 2.0-liter V4 turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, the advanced energy recovery system enhanced performance. This vehicle holds the record for setting an all-time lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Driven by Timo Bernhard in June 2018, it completed the lap in only 5 minutes and 19.55 seconds.
Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny has stood its ground among the larger off-road giants and performance cars. Since its debut in 1970, this vehicle has showcased record-breaking off-road capabilities. Its compact size has not stopped it from dominating rugged landscapes, earning it the “World Urban Car of the Year” in 2019. Featuring the best safety features, electronic aids, and increased ground clearance, it refuses to break down.
Ford Model T
The Ford Model T goes down in history for its effort to mass-produce vehicles for everyone. Founded by Henry Ford, the company hired Chester W. Greenough to develop a minimalist yet effective vehicle. Powered by a 2.9-liter, 4-cylinder engine paired with a 2-speed planetary transmission, it showcased a rear-wheel layout. The innovative assembly-line method gained widespread recognition and was adopted in other industries as well.
BMW E30 M3
The BMW E30 M3 holds several records for its racing success, dominating races in the 1980s. These include the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) and the 1987 World Touring Car Championship, which Roberto Ravaglia drove. Moreover, the vehicle won the 24 Hours Nürburgring from 1989 to 1994, gaining widespread recognition. The four consecutive wins at the Spa 24 Hours race from 1987 and 1992 further made it a favorite.
Aston Martin DB5
The Aston Martin DB5 is associated with James Bond due to its 1964 appearance in the film Goldfinger. Powered by a 4.0-liter inline-six engine, it achieved a top speed of 145 mph. It is a cultural icon with a huge fan following, which boosted sales of the car after the movie. For the movie, the car was modified with revolving number plates, smoke screens, bulletproof glass, radar screens, machine guns, and an ejector seat.
McLaren F1
Until 2005, the McLaren F1 held the record for being the fastest car in the industry. It achieved a top speed of 243 mph, credited to the 6.1-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine from BMW. With an innovative central driving position, aerodynamic profile, and larger rear wing, this vehicle is one of a kind. Thanks to the lightweight construction, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.2 seconds.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
Electric vehicles are no longer a luxury for the elite—they’re a smart investment for the everyday driver. With manufacturers stepping up to the plate, affordable EVs now deliver on reliability, range, and modern comforts. Here’s a look at 18 economical electric cars engineered to outlast their payment plans.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
