11 weirdest cars that came with a factory V8

Bobby Clark

07/15/2025

11 weirdest cars that came with a factory V8 — Image Credit: Vauxford – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons

When it comes to cars, the V8 engine is often celebrated for its power and performance. However, some vehicles with factory-installed V8s have defied conventional expectations. From luxury sedans to unconventional sports cars, these unique models showcase the intriguing blend of performance and eccentricity.

1) 1977 Aston Martin Lagonda

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The 1977 Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury sedan that stood out not just for its angular, futuristic design but also for its V8 engine. The Lagonda featured a 5.3-liter V8 that delivered impressive performance for its time. Its digital dashboard and cutting-edge technology were ahead of its era, making it one of the most distinctive cars produced by Aston Martin.

2) 1989 Nissan President

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The Nissan President, a flagship luxury sedan primarily for the Japanese market, came with a factory V8. Known for its elegance and comfort, the 1989 model housed a 4.5-liter V8, offering a smooth and powerful driving experience. The President was an unusual choice for a V8, showcasing Nissan’s dedication to blending luxury with performance.

3) 1993 Mazda Roadpacer AP

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This peculiar car resulted from a collaboration between Mazda and GM. The Roadpacer AP utilized the body of a Holden and was equipped with a 13B rotary engine to start but later hosted a V8. Its unique history and limited production make it one of the most unusual models in Mazda’s lineup.

4) 1999 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning

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The Ford SVT F-150 Lightning is a performance truck that came with a supercharged V8 engine. Known for its speed and power, the 1999 model emphasized its performance capabilities with a 5.4-liter Triton V8. This truck was part of Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) lineup, designed to combine the utility of a truck with the excitement of a sports car.

5) 2000 Volkswagen Phaeton W8

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Volkswagen’s Phaeton was a luxury sedan that surprised many with its V8 option. While the more famous W12 engine was also available, the Phaeton’s 4.2-liter V8 offered a unique combination of luxury and performance. Its understated design and advanced technology made it a standout in Volkswagen’s lineup.

6) 2003 MG XPower SV

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The MG XPower SV was a limited-production sports car with a 4.6-liter V8 engine sourced from Ford. This car was known for its aggressive design and high-performance capabilities. Despite MG’s reputation for producing small, sporty cars, the XPower SV ventured into the realm of high-performance vehicles with its powerful V8.

7) 2004 Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6

The Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 was a collaboration between Daimler and Chrysler, featuring a supercharged V8 engine. Known for its distinctive design, the Crossfire combined American style with German engineering. The SRT-6 variant offered enhanced performance, setting it apart as an unusual yet thrilling sports car.

8) 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

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The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 was the first of its kind to feature a powerful 6.1-liter HEMI V8 engine. This high-performance SUV offered impressive speed and agility, challenging the notion of what an SUV could achieve. Its blend of capability and performance made it a standout in the Grand Cherokee lineup.

9) 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron

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The Spyker C8 Aileron is a Dutch sports car known for its handcrafted design and aviation-inspired aesthetics. Its 4.2-liter Audi V8 engine delivered robust performance, making it a unique entry in the luxury sports car segment. Spyker’s dedication to detail and performance is evident in this eccentric yet powerful car.

10) 2012 Fisker Karma

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The Fisker Karma is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that housed a V8 engine for range extension. Although primarily powered by an electric motor, the 2.0-liter turbocharged V8 provided additional power when needed. The Karma’s eco-friendly approach combined with its performance capabilities made it a standout in the hybrid market.

11) 2015 Ariel Nomad V8

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The Ariel Nomad V8 is an off-road vehicle that defies convention with its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. Known for its rugged build and exceptional performance, the Nomad V8 is designed for thrill-seekers who crave adventure. Its unique design and capabilities make it one of the most unconventional vehicles on the market.