The Most Durable Engines Still in Use Today
Some engines become legends not just for their performance, but for their near-mythical durability. Whether they’re heavy-duty diesels or jet engines powering fighters and helicopters, these powerplants have earned a reputation for running reliably in the harshest environments. Here’s a look at the engines celebrated for their toughness and almost indestructible design.
General Electric T700
The General Electric T700 turboshaft engine is a mainstay in helicopters like the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache. Known for its ability to operate in extreme temperatures, dusty deserts, and high altitudes, the T700 delivers dependable power. Its rugged design and ease of maintenance have kept it in service worldwide for decades!
Rolls-Royce AE 1107C-Liberty
Powering the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, the Rolls-Royce AE 1107C-Liberty combines the durability of a helicopter turboshaft with the high-performance demands of fixed-wing flight. Its robust engineering allows for reliable operation in complex missions, including combat zones and disaster relief, making it a trusted powerhouse in challenging operational conditions.
Caterpillar C7
The Caterpillar C7 diesel engine, used in trucks, buses, and heavy equipment, built a reputation for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance. Its straightforward design, combined with Caterpillar’s focus on durability, made it a favorite in industries requiring dependable performance in grueling work environments.
Detroit Diesel Series 60
Introduced in the late 1980s, the Detroit Diesel Series 60 was one of the first heavy-duty diesel engines with electronic controls. Praised for its fuel efficiency and long life, it became a favorite in trucking. Many Series 60 engines are still on the road today, some with over a million miles logged.
Mercedes-Benz OM 617
The Mercedes-Benz OM 617 five-cylinder diesel engine is legendary among enthusiasts for its near-bulletproof nature. Produced from the 1970s through the 1980s, it powered models like the W123 and W126. Known for running smoothly even with extreme mileage, this engine often outlasted the cars it was built into.
Ford 7.3L Power Stroke
Produced from 1994 to 2003, the Ford 7.3L Power Stroke V8 diesel is still regarded as one of the most reliable truck engines ever made. Found in Ford’s Super Duty pickups, it offered immense torque, easy serviceability, and the ability to keep running under punishing workloads for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Pratt & Whitney F119
Developed for the F-22 Raptor, the Pratt & Whitney F119 turbofan delivers unmatched performance and exceptional durability in the high-stress world of modern fighter jets. Designed to withstand extreme speeds, temperatures, and maneuvering forces, the F119’s advanced engineering ensures it stays mission-ready even under the most demanding combat conditions.
General Electric F110
The General Electric F110 turbofan powers iconic aircraft like the F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-15E Strike Eagle. Praised for its resilience, the F110 can handle sustained afterburner use and combat stress while requiring less maintenance than many peers, making it a cornerstone of the U.S. Air Force and allied air fleets.
Cummins QSB Series
A workhorse for marine, industrial, and construction applications, the Cummins QSB Series of diesel engines is known for its clean emissions, fuel efficiency, and unwavering reliability. The QSB can run for thousands of hours in harsh environments with minimal issues, earning the trust of operators worldwide.
Cummins NTA885
Built for heavy-duty trucks, mining equipment, and marine vessels, the Cummins NTA885 is a rugged inline-six diesel that thrives under extreme workloads. Its robust design, easy rebuildability, and long service life have made it a staple in demanding industries for decades, often running well beyond its expected operational lifespan.
MTU MB 873 Ka-501
Used in the German Leopard 2 main battle tank, the MTU MB 873 Ka-501 is a 1,500-horsepower V12 diesel built for extreme endurance in combat. Designed to deliver sustained performance in all terrains and climates, it’s renowned for its ability to keep heavy armor moving under punishing battlefield conditions.
Honeywell AGT1500
The Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engine powers the M1 Abrams main battle tank. Capable of running on multiple fuels, it offers exceptional acceleration and reliability in the field. Its rugged construction allows it to handle the dust, heat, and shock of armored warfare while requiring minimal maintenance between missions.
V-12 Diesel Engine (Water-Cooled)
Water-cooled V-12 diesel engines, used in various military and industrial applications, are prized for their balance of smooth operation and immense durability. Their large displacement and efficient cooling systems allow them to run for extended periods under heavy load, making them reliable in both civilian heavy equipment and armored vehicles.
General Electric LM2500
The General Electric LM2500 marine gas turbine is a mainstay in naval vessels around the world. Adapted from an aircraft engine, it delivers high power output with remarkable reliability. It’s able to operate for thousands of hours between overhauls, so it’s become a trusted choice for everything from frigates to aircraft carriers.
Rolls-Royce Olympus 593
Best known for powering the famous Concorde, the Rolls-Royce/Snecma Olympus 593 turbojet operated at supersonic speeds for decades without sacrificing reliability. Its precision engineering allowed it to handle extreme heat and pressure at Mach 2, making it one of the most durable high-performance engines ever built for commercial aviation.
