Most people want a car that lasts a long time without needing expensive repairs. A reliable car saves money and avoids the hassle of frequent breakdowns.
Some cars are built to last, with engines and parts that keep running smoothly for years. If maintained properly, certain vehicles can reach 500,000 miles without major repairs.
Choosing a long-lasting car is important, especially for people who drive a lot. A durable vehicle means fewer trips to the mechanic and more money saved in the long run.
Some cars are designed with high-quality materials and simple, strong engines that can handle years of driving. These vehicles are trusted by owners for their dependability.
The key to a car reaching 500,000 miles is good engineering and proper maintenance. Some automakers build cars with engines that can handle extreme conditions, while others use advanced technology to improve durability.
Regular oil changes, timely part replacements, and careful driving also help extend a car’s life.
Many of the longest-lasting cars come from brands known for reliability. Companies like Toyota, Honda, and Ford have models that can easily last hundreds of thousands of miles.
These brands focus on making vehicles that hold up well over time, even with daily use and tough road conditions.
Some high-mileage cars are often used for work, such as taxis or delivery vehicles.
Owners of these cars rely on them for daily tasks, and their ability to run for years without problems makes them valuable. Their strong engines, simple mechanics, and affordable repairs make them ideal for long-term use.
12) Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of the most reliable vehicles ever made. It is built to last and can easily reach 500,000 miles with minimal issues.
Many cars struggle to reach this milestone, but the Land Cruiser does it effortlessly. Its strong engine and durable design allow it to keep running for decades with proper care.
Some people compare long distances to laps around the equator to explain how far a car has traveled. For example, 500,000 miles is about 12 times around the Earth.
While this may sound impressive, the Land Cruiser takes it even further. It is capable of driving millions of miles across some of the toughest terrains on the planet.
The reason the Land Cruiser lasts so long is Toyota’s focus on quality engineering. It is built using high-strength materials that withstand extreme conditions.
Whether driving through deserts, mountains, or cities, the Land Cruiser continues to perform without major repairs. This makes it a top choice for adventurers and professionals who need a dependable vehicle.
Many Land Cruiser owners keep their SUVs for decades, passing them down through generations. Some are used in remote areas where reliability is essential.
Humanitarian organizations and governments often rely on the Land Cruiser for tough missions. It is a vehicle that rarely breaks down, even under harsh conditions.
If maintained properly, a Land Cruiser can go well beyond 500,000 miles. Regular oil changes, timely part replacements, and careful driving can keep it running smoothly.
This is why the Land Cruiser has earned a reputation as one of the most durable vehicles. It is an investment that lasts a lifetime and beyond.
11) Volvo P1800
Irv Gordon is famous for owning a Volvo P1800 that he drove for over three million miles. He bought the car after his Chevrolet Corvair broke down, and from that moment, the P1800 became his trusted companion.
With a daily commute of 125 miles, the P1800 was put through a lot but always held up without issue.
As time passed, Irv’s P1800 continued to impress. It hit 250,000 miles, then 500,000, and eventually reached one million miles.
At that milestone, Volvo rewarded Irv with a new 780 luxury coupe. However, he didn’t stop driving, putting another 450,000 miles on the new car before selling it.
His original P1800 didn’t stop either, reaching an incredible 2.2 million miles before he passed away in 2018.
What makes this story even more remarkable is that the P1800 didn’t need a major engine rebuild until after 600,000 miles.
When the engine was finally taken apart, Volvo technicians discovered that it didn’t need a rebuild at all. They rebuilt it anyway, and the car kept going strong for another million miles before it needed another rebuild.
The Volvo P1800’s longevity is a testament to both Irv’s careful driving and the car’s engineering. It wasn’t just a matter of good luck; the P1800 was built to last.
While most cars from the 1960s wouldn’t come close to matching this kind of mileage, the P1800 stood out as an extraordinary example of reliability and durability.
Irv Gordon’s P1800 is one of the most remarkable stories in automotive history, and it proves that with the right car and care, it’s possible to achieve truly unbelievable mileage.
10) Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is known for its long-lasting durability, but there’s a secret benefit for second-hand buyers. In some markets, like Australia, the Accord was available with a manual transmission, specifically the six-speed version.
This feature makes the Accord a fun and engaging car to drive, offering a smooth and precise gear change that is rare in sedans.
The six-speed manual transmission pairs perfectly with the VTEC-equipped 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine. This combination gives the Accord impressive performance for a family sedan, making it an enjoyable car to drive.
While the Accord may look like an ordinary sedan on the outside, its performance under the hood is anything but ordinary.
Despite its exciting driving capabilities, the Accord maintains a low profile. The car’s design is simple and understated, attracting little attention.
This makes it a great choice for those who want a reliable and practical car without drawing too much attention. In a way, it’s the perfect “secret dad toy” – a car that delivers excitement without looking flashy.
For those who can find one, the manual-equipped Accord offers excellent value. It’s an ideal option for anyone looking for a reliable, enjoyable car that can last for years.
With Honda’s reputation for building long-lasting vehicles, this model can easily reach 500,000 miles or more with proper care.
Also read: 12 SUVs That Can Last Over 20 Years With Basic Maintenance
While the manual version of the Accord might have once been a hidden gem, it’s now gaining attention.
Its combination of reliability, performance, and understated design makes it a fantastic choice for car buyers looking for something practical yet fun to drive. If well-maintained, the Accord can continue to provide reliable service for many years to come.
9) Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is known for its exceptional reliability. Toyota designs its cars with longevity in mind, making sure they can run for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues.
While it may not be the most exciting car, it is built to be dependable, which is why it has a strong following among those looking for long-term durability.
The Camry’s conservative design focuses on ensuring that it lasts for years. Toyota uses careful tuning to make sure the engine and other components can handle the stress of daily driving without breaking down.
This means that, while the Camry may not offer thrills on the road, it will keep running smoothly for as long as you need it to.
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the Camry is an excellent choice. It’s not flashy or fast, but it will take you wherever you need to go, day after day.
For people who want a car they can rely on for the long haul, the Camry is one of the best options available.
Over the years, the Camry has built a reputation for being a reliable workhorse. Many owners have reported driving their Camrys for hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues.
Whether it’s commuting, running errands, or going on road trips, the Camry can handle it all with ease.
While some may see the Camry as dull, its reliability makes it one of the most practical choices for those who value longevity over excitement. If well-maintained, a Toyota Camry can easily surpass 500,000 miles, making it one of the longest-lasting cars on the market.
8) Peugeot 504
The Peugeot 504 is proof that some cars are made to withstand extreme conditions. While many joke about Peugeots being unreliable, the 504 breaks that stereotype.
This car was built with durability in mind, making it one of the toughest vehicles ever produced. It has survived decades of rough use, especially in countries with harsh environments.
Peugeot has a long history of making strong cars, and the 504 is one of the best examples.
Designed in the late 1960s, it quickly became popular for its rugged construction and smooth ride. It was comfortable to drive, but more importantly, it was built to last. This made it a top choice for long-distance travel and taxi services.
One of the reasons the 504 is so durable is its simple yet effective engineering. Peugeot designed it with strong suspension, reliable engines, and a body that could handle rough roads.
This made it perfect for places like Africa, where road conditions are often challenging. Many 504s have lasted for decades despite constant heavy use.
The 504’s reputation for toughness comes from its ability to survive extreme conditions. While many modern cars break down under pressure, the 504 keeps going. In some parts of the world, it is still used as a taxi, proving its reliability even after all these years.
Unfortunately, the 1990s were not kind to Peugeot. Cost-cutting decisions led to less durable models, which affected the brand’s reputation.
However, the legacy of the 504 remains. It stands as one of the most resilient cars ever made, proving that good engineering can create a vehicle that lasts for generations. With proper care, a 504 can easily reach 500,000 miles, making it one of the longest-lasting cars in history.
7) Toyota Corolla The Car That Never Quits
The Toyota Corolla is one of the most reliable cars ever made. It is designed to last for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues.
Toyota builds its cars conservatively, ensuring that every part is strong and durable. This focus on long-term reliability is why millions of Corollas are still on the road today.
Toyota’s engines are built to handle more power than they actually produce. Instead of pushing their limits, Toyota keeps the engine performance balanced to prevent unnecessary strain.
This means the Corolla may not be the most exciting car to drive, but it will keep running smoothly for decades without major breakdowns.
Unlike some European cars that focus on performance, Toyota prioritizes longevity. While other manufacturers tune their engines for more speed, Toyota engineers design their engines to handle wear and tear over time.
This conservative approach allows Corollas to reach 500,000 miles and beyond with proper maintenance.
Reliability may not be the most exciting feature, but it is one of the most important. A car that starts every morning runs without unexpected repairs, and stays on the road for years is invaluable.
Many Corolla owners have driven their cars for decades, proving that Toyota’s quality stands the test of time.
Because of its dependability, the Corolla has been a best seller worldwide. It is often used as a daily commuter, a family car, and even a taxi in some countries.
No matter how it is used, the Corolla continues to prove why it is one of the most durable and practical cars ever made. If well cared for, a Corolla can easily reach 500,000 miles, making it a true symbol of reliability.
6) W123 Mercedes-Benz
The Mercedes-Benz W123 is one of the most durable cars ever built. When Mercedes designed it in the 1970s, they focused on making it last as long as possible.
Every part of the car was engineered to be tough and reliable. As a result, the W123 became famous for its ability to keep running for decades without major issues.
Mercedes spent a lot of time and money ensuring that the W123 would be one of the most well-built cars in history.
They wanted to create a vehicle that not only represented their brand’s quality but also outperformed anything their competitors could make. This dedication to quality is why the W123 is still on the road today.
Because of its durability, the W123 became a popular choice for long-distance travel. In the 1990s, many travelers would buy an old W123, drive it to Africa, for months, and then sell the car before heading home.
The car was so well-built that it retained its value, often covering most or even all of the traveler’s expenses.
The W123 is known for its over-engineering. Many of its parts are stronger than necessary, allowing it to handle extreme conditions.
It was commonly used as a taxi in many countries, racking up hundreds of thousands of miles with little trouble. Some examples have even surpassed one million miles.
Also read: 10 Vintage Muscle Cars That Are Still Holding Their Value
Even though it was produced decades ago, the W123 is still appreciated today. Car enthusiasts admire it for its timeless design and legendary reliability.
If maintained properly, this classic Mercedes-Benz can last a lifetime, making it one of the greatest long-lasting cars ever made.
5) Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a rugged and dependable vehicle that can last well over 500,000 miles. It is a lifted station wagon with off-road capabilities, making it perfect for adventure seekers and families alike.
Subaru has a long history of building reliable cars, and the Outback is one of the best examples of its durability.
One of the key reasons for the Outback’s longevity is its strong boxer engine. Unlike traditional engines, a boxer engine has pistons that move sideways, which helps lower the car’s center of gravity and improve stability.
This engine design has helped Subaru cars perform well in both daily driving and extreme conditions like rally racing.
Older Subaru models had some issues with head gaskets, which could be expensive to repair. However, Subaru has since fixed this problem by using better materials.
Modern Outbacks no longer suffer from this issue, allowing them to last for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.
The Outback is designed for tough conditions, making it ideal for people who drive on rough terrain or in harsh weather.
With its all-wheel-drive system, it provides excellent grip on snowy or muddy roads. This makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable car for camping trips or road adventures.
In addition to being tough, the Outback is also practical. It has a spacious interior, plenty of cargo room, and a comfortable ride.
Whether used for daily commuting, long road trips, or carrying pets and gear, the Outback remains a dependable choice. When well-maintained, this Subaru can easily reach 500,000 miles, proving that it is built to last.
4) Mazda MX-5/Miata
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is not just a fun sports car—it is also one of the longest-lasting.
While many people associate high-mileage cars with tough SUVs or reliable sedans, the MX-5 proves that a lightweight roadster can also go past 500,000 miles with ease.
Mazda designed the MX-5 to be a dependable version of classic British roadsters. Many old British sports cars were fun to drive but often had mechanical issues.
They struggled with reliability, sometimes failing to start or leaking fluids. Mazda solved these problems by creating a small, lightweight car that offered the same fun driving experience without constant breakdowns.
The result was a sports car that worked in all conditions. The MX-5 starts in cold weather, runs smoothly in the rain, and does not suffer from common mechanical failures.
Instead of leaking oil or overheating, it stays reliable for years. This made it one of the most popular sports cars, with over a million units sold across four generations.
Despite being a lightweight roadster, the MX-5 has surprising durability. Many owners have driven their Miatas well beyond 500,000 miles.
Some have even reached 500,000 miles while still using the original engine. Its simple, well-built design helps it last longer than many other sports cars.
Mazda focused on making the MX-5 easy to maintain, with affordable parts and a straightforward design. This makes it possible for owners to keep their cars running for decades.
Whether used for daily driving or weekend fun, the Mazda MX-5 remains one of the most dependable and enjoyable cars ever made. Its combination of reliability and excitement makes it a true automotive legend.
3) Ford Crown Victoria
The Ford Crown Victoria has been a symbol of American cities for decades. It has served as a taxi, police car, and private hire vehicle, racking up millions of miles.
Whether painted in bright yellow for taxi duty or decked out in black for government use, the Crown Victoria is instantly recognizable for its durability and reliability.
Many luxury limousines were based on a similar design, like the Lincoln Town Car. While the Lincoln had a longer wheelbase and a few cosmetic changes, it was essentially the same car as the Crown Victoria.
American car manufacturers often shared parts across models, making repairs easier and keeping maintenance costs low. This helped the Crown Victoria last longer.
One of the biggest reasons for the Crown Victoria’s long life is its simple and strong design. It was built with a body-on-frame structure, making it more resistant to wear and tear.
This is why it could survive tough conditions, whether as a police car chasing criminals or a taxi driving through busy city streets every day.
Another reason for its durability is the car’s 4.6-liter V8 engine. It may not be the most powerful engine, but it is built to last.
Police departments, taxi services, and private owners have reported Crown Victorias lasting well beyond 500,000 miles with regular maintenance. These cars were made to handle daily abuse and keep running smoothly.
Even though Ford stopped making the Crown Victoria in 2011, many are still on the road today. Some former police cars are sold to private owners, while taxis continue running long after they retire from service.
With its legendary toughness, the Crown Victoria remains one of the most reliable American cars ever made.
2) Lexus LS400
The Lexus LS400 is another long-lasting vehicle, and like the previous two, it comes from Toyota. Unlike the rugged Land Cruiser and Hilux, the LS400 is a luxury sedan.
It has a traditional car design with four doors, an engine in the front, and a spacious trunk. It may look simple, but its reliability is unmatched.
Some people say the LS400’s design is too plain, but its real strength lies under the hood. It comes with a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine featuring a quad-overhead cam design.
This engine is built with Toyota’s legendary reliability, allowing it to last for hundreds of thousands of miles. It runs smoothly and continues performing well even after years of use.
The LS400’s engine is so durable that people use it for other machines. One example is a person who removed a 100,000-mile LS400 engine and installed it in a boat.
Even after a decade of pulling people on tubes across a lake, the engine still runs perfectly. This proves how strong and long-lasting the LS400’s engine truly is.
Besides its powerful engine, the LS400 is built with high-quality materials that resist wear and tear.
The interior remains comfortable even after years of use, and the suspension is designed to provide a smooth ride. Owners who take good care of their LS400s often see them lasting over 500,000 miles.
Also read: 10 Classic Sports Cars That Offer Thrills Without Expensive Maintenance
The Lexus LS400 was created to compete with luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, but it offered something unique—unmatched reliability.
While other luxury cars may need expensive repairs over time, the LS400 keeps running with minimal issues. If maintained properly, this sedan can last a lifetime, making it one of the best long-lasting luxury cars ever made.
1) Air-Cooled Porsche 911
The air-cooled Porsche 911 is known for its impressive durability, often rolling past 200,000 miles with little more than regular servicing.
While these cars may be expensive and require a driver with skill to handle the heavy clutch, their ability to endure over time makes them a legend in the automotive world.
In fact, many air-cooled 911s have been known to exceed 500,000 miles without needing major repairs or engine rebuilds.
Some examples have even reached 400,000 or 500,000 miles, proving just how reliable these vehicles can be. Even a limited-edition Speedster, which had 283,000 miles on it, went up for auction for £70,000.
That particular Speedster had its engine rebuilt at 206,000 miles, which simply meant that the new owner could drive it for another 120,000 miles before needing another rebuild.
This is just one example of how Porsche owners often enjoy a long lifespan with minimal interference from mechanical issues.
The air-cooled Porsche 911 is a car that combines performance, luxury, and incredible longevity.
While it may not be the most forgiving car for inexperienced drivers, its mechanical reliability ensures that owners can keep driving for hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues.
The Porsche 911’s ability to maintain value and keep going strong for so many miles is what makes it one of the most respected cars in automotive history.
If you’re lucky enough to own an air-cooled Porsche 911, you’re driving a piece of automotive history with a reputation for unmatched durability. With the right care, these cars are built to last for many years and countless miles.
