While most cars start coughing and wheezing past 200,000 miles, some rare gems laugh in the face of high mileage and keep on rolling like they’ve made a pact with the odometer gods. Here are 25 classic cars that have proven they’re more than just vehicles; they’re legends.
Volvo 240 (1974-1993)
The Volvo 240 had multiple engine options under the hood, from the reliable B20 inline-four to the turbocharged B21ET. It consistently tried to better its environmental football with features like the Lambda Sond oxygen sensor, introduced in 1976. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized its efforts. Owners often joke that the car’s longevity is matched only by its appetite for regular oil changes and the occasional muffler replacement.
Toyota Land Cruiser (1951-Present)
The Toyota Land Cruiser is the Chuck Norris of SUVs. Initially designed for military use, it gained popularity as a civilian vehicle due to its reliability in extreme conditions. Over 70 years and 10 generations, the Land Cruiser evolved from a utilitarian workhorse to a luxurious off-road SUV, blending ruggedness with refinement. Also, built to conquer deserts, jungles, and the occasional soccer field, it’s no surprise that many have racked up over 400,000 miles. The secret? Bulletproof engineering and an unyielding drivetrain that laughs in the face of rough terrain.
Mercedes-Benz W123 (1976-1985)
Dubbed the “million-mile car,” the W123 is the gold standard for reliability. Introduced as a successor to the W114/W115 series, it quickly became a global favorite, with over 2.7 million units sold. The W123 also prioritized comfort and safety, pioneering ABS (anti-lock brakes) and airbags in the segment. Plus, its over-engineered components gave it a reputation for longevity, with many examples surpassing 500,000 kilometers.
Honda Accord (1976-Present)
A staple of suburban driveways, the Honda Accord is the ultimate family warrior. Initially launched as a compact hatchback, it quickly evolved into a sedan by 1979. Over the decades, it has undergone 11 generations of transformation, offering sedans, coupes, and hybrids, and consistently setting benchmarks in its class. Its powertrains range from fuel-efficient four-cylinders to potent V6 engines, with hybrids gaining prominence. As of 2023, the 11th generation also emphasizes sleek design, turbocharged engines, and a strong focus on hybrid models to meet modern demands.
Ford Crown Victoria (1992-2011)
If you’ve ever been in a police chase or a taxi cab, you’ve likely experienced the indomitable Ford Crown Victoria. Introduced as a full-size sedan, it featured a rear-wheel-drive layout, a hallmark of traditional American cars. Under the hood, a 4.6L Modular V8 engine ensured reliability and ample power. Inside, its spacious cabin prioritized comfort, and it had a huge trunk, essential for large families.
Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001)
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is the SUV equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. Engineered under François Castaing, the XJ had a unibody construction, blending car-like handling with off-road capability—a groundbreaking move in a market dominated by body-on-frame SUVs. Its distinctive boxy design, penned by Dick Teague’s team, emphasized ruggedness and practicality. And, with its legendary 4.0-liter inline-six engine, this off-road icon shrugs off high mileage like it’s just getting warmed up.
Volkswagen Beetle (1938-2003)
The original Volkswagen Beetle is the little car that could. By the 1960s, the Beetle symbolized counterculture movements, especially in the U.S. Its robust design, ease of repair, and quirky looks endeared it to millions. With over 21 million units produced, it became the world’s best-selling car of a single design platform by 1972. Its air-cooled engine and minimalist design mean less to break and more to love. Plus, many Beetles have passed the 400,000-mile milestone, often with quirky owners who swear by their mechanical simplicity.
Toyota Tacoma (1995-Present)
Built for hard work and weekend adventures, the Toyota Tacoma is a pickup that thrives on durability. It was built to replace the Toyota Hilux in the North American market, and it did a great job. It debuted with various efficient engines, including a 2.4L I4 and a 3.4L V6, catering to diverse needs. And, further, its robust chassis and dependable engines make it a favorite among those who rack up miles hauling, towing, and exploring.
Subaru Outback (1994-Present)
Equal parts wagon and SUV, the Subaru Outback is the adventurer’s best friend. Initially a trim level of the Legacy, it became a standalone model in 1996. Subaru’s hallmark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and high ground clearance (currently up to 9.5 inches) make it a favorite for adventure enthusiasts. Plus, thanks to its boxer engine it’s built to handle everything from snowstorms to road trips, often surpassing 400,000 miles. It’s a go-to choice for road trips and off-the-grid exploration, combining practicality and adventure.
Chevrolet Suburban (1935-Present)
As the longest-running nameplate in automotive history, the Chevrolet Suburban is a mileage monster. Initially conceived as a “carryall” with a rugged, truck-based design, it featured a two-door body aimed at families and businesses needing extra space. Over the decades, it also evolved significantly, incorporating modern comforts and technology while retaining its utility as a full-size SUV.
Saab 900 (1978-1998)
The Saab 900 is the quirky Scandinavian cousin of the automotive world. The 900 underwent several updates throughout its production run, with the classic 900 (pre-1994) offering unique characteristics like a wraparound windshield and Saab’s signature ignition switch on the center console. The 900 was also well-regarded for its durability, with many surviving well beyond the typical car lifespan. And, despite being discontinued in 1998, the Saab 900 remains a beloved model among enthusiasts for its quirky charm, pioneering safety features, and performance-oriented engineering.
Lexus LS400 (1989-2000)
The Lexus LS400 was Toyota’s opening salvo in the luxury market, and boy, did it hit the mark. With its buttery-smooth V8 and impeccable build quality, this car redefined reliability and often racks up mileage milestones gracefully. Plus, a game-changer in luxury, it offered reliability that rivaled the best European sedans, and it was a favorite for executives. Notably, the LS400’s build quality and attention to detail helped Toyota’s Lexus brand become synonymous with luxury. The car also introduced cutting-edge safety features, including a traction control system, setting the standard for future luxury vehicles.
Toyota Corolla (1966-Present)
The Toyota Corolla’s simplicity, fuel efficiency, and legendary reliability have made it a global favorite. Over the decades, the Corolla has evolved with modern technologies, including advanced safety features, hybrid powertrains, and infotainment systems. The 12th generation (2018-present)also returned to more exciting styling while maintaining its core values of practicality and dependability. So, it’s not uncommon to find Corollas with 400,000 miles still going strong.
Ford F-150 (1948-Present)
America’s best-selling truck for decades, the Ford F-150 is as rugged as they come. Initially introduced as a post-war vehicle, it swiftly gained popularity due to its reliability and toughness. Over the decades, the F-150 evolved with various engine and design updates, adapting to families, contractors, and adventurers’ needs. By 1975, it was officially the best-selling vehicle in the U.S., a title it continues to hold to this day. It’s a true testament to Ford’s lasting impact.
BMW E30 3 Series (1982-1994)
The BMW E30 is a classic. However, the most legendary variant of the series was the E30 M3 (1986-1991), with its 2.3L 4-cylinder engine and motorsport pedigree, making it a street and track favorite. The E30’s handling, rear-wheel drive layout, and build quality earned it a loyal following, and it remains a beloved classic. Today, it’s still celebrated for its balance of practicality and fun-to-drive nature. The E30’s longevity is a testament to BMW’s engineering excellence.
Dodge Ram Cummins (1989-Present)
Diesel enthusiasts know the Dodge Ram with the Cummins engine is a mileage king. Fast forward to today, and the Cummins lineup has evolved into 6.7L monsters, churning out up to 420 hp and 1,075 lb.-ft of torque. Pair that with reliability that rivals a Swiss watch, and you’ve got a truck that’ll probably outlive you. Known for their bulletproof engines, these rigs are beloved for towing, hauling, and casually smoking out tailgaters with their turbo whistle and coal-roll clouds.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (1989-Present)
The Mazda Miata proves that fun and reliability can go hand in hand. Lightweight (about 2,100 lbs. at launch), rear-wheel drive, and with a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, it dances through corners like a caffeinated ballerina. For over four generations, Mazda has added modern touches like retractable hardtops and advanced safety tech, but it has never strayed from the formula. It’s still a no-frills, wind-in-your-hair joy machine. Bonus: Pop-up headlights (1989–1997) mean your Miata can wink at strangers. Over 1.2 million sold, proving sometimes the most straightforward recipe is the tastiest. Zoom zoom!
Toyota Prius (1997-Present)
The Toyota Prius is the OG hybrid that showed the world that you could save fuel, and it looks mildly futuristic doing it. Debuting in 1997, this eco-champ became the poster car for “saving the planet, one gallon at a time.” The 2025 Prius? A sleek spaceship compared to its boxy ancestors, with over 55 MPG and a plug-in hybrid variant boasting 40+ miles of electric range. And while critics may tease its looks (the “Prius triangle” is iconic, OK?), with millions sold, Prius proves that practical, eco-friendly, and oddly lovable is a winning formula.
Chevrolet Silverado (1999-Present)
The Silverado is a workhorse of a truck. Under the hood, it’s a buffet of engines, from reliable V6s to monstrous V8s, plus a Duramax diesel for towing your dreams (or a boat). It is also known for durability and’s often called “the truck that outlives your budget.” Plus, the Silverado’s off-road Z71 package laughs in the face of mud while its tech-savvy interiors charm modern drivers. And, with over two decades of upgrades, it’s no wonder Silverado means “silver lining” in Spanish—this truck really is a bright spot.
Nissan Frontier (1997-Present)
The Nissan Frontier, also known as the “Navara” outside North America, has been trucking along since 1997, and boy, does it have staying power! Off-road enthusiasts drool over the PRO-4X trim, which can tackle trails like a caffeinated mountain goat. Need to tow? It’s got up to 6,720 pounds of grunt. And, though it’s not the flashiest pickup, it’s loved for its “get-stuff-done” vibe. Plus, with over two decades of proving itself, the Frontier is like the dependable friend who shows up to every move… with pizza.
Honda Civic (1972-Present)
The Honda Civic (1972–present) is the automotive equivalent of your trusty, coffee-powered friend: reliable, efficient, and always showing up on time. It’s like that kid in school who aces every subject: it offers stellar fuel economy, practicality, and just enough style to avoid being a total square. It’s been built in countless variants—from hatchbacks to sedans to coupes—and sold in over 170 countries. By 2021, Honda had sold over 27 million Civics worldwide, proving that dependable never goes out of style.
Volvo P1800 (1961-1973)
The Volvo P1800 earned its place on this list thanks to Irv Gordon, who drove his 1966 model over 3 million miles. Famously durable, a 1966 model holds the world record for the highest mileage driven by a single owner (over 3 million miles!). Simon Templar from The Saint TV series also boosted its fame, driving the P1800 with a criminally good charm. Though a grander tourer than a racer, it combined Scandinavian reliability with Italian flair—like Ikea-making Ferraris. With 47,492 units produced, this car proved that Volvo could do “sexy,” not just “safe.”
Toyota Camry (1982-Present)
The Toyota Camry is the quintessential sedan for those who value reliability over flash. In recent models, fuel efficiency has always been its side hustle—averaging around 28-34 mpg. From the boxy charm of the early years to the sleek, tech-packed 2025 hybrid and TRD trims, it’s evolved faster than your favorite smartphone. A global bestseller, the Camry has been America’s sweetheart sedan for decades. Critics say it’s too “safe,” but when has predictability ever let you down? Plus, fun fact: the Camry’s name comes from the Japanese word kanmuri, meaning “crown.” Yep, it’s automotive royalty.
Volkswagen Golf (1974-Present)
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car with a big heart. The Golf’s first-generation (Mk1) set the benchmark for hatchbacks, while the Mk2 grew slightly chunkier—think sequel syndrome. By the Mk3, safety caught up with style, with airbags making an entrance. The Mk4? A tech-savvy sibling with class. Fast forward, the Mk7 became the sweetheart of the turbocharged set. The current Mk8 offers sleek tech galore, like a cockpit from a sci-fi flick. Further, it’s been VW’s global superstar, selling over 35 million units.
Porsche 911 (1964-Present)
The Porsche 911 is proof that performance cars can also be reliable. And, while it’s been through a few tweaks (turbocharged engines, all-wheel-drive, and a digital dashboard here and there), its essence remains the same: serious driving with a touch of sophistication. From the original 130 horsepower to the 640-horsepower turbocharged monsters of today, the 911 proves that you can grow up but still have fun—and do it at 190 mph. Fun fact: It’s also known for being “Porsche’s best-kept secret”—because everyone who owns one keeps getting another one.
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
