8 rare engines that were only produced in small numbers

Bobby Clark

05/03/2026

8 rare engines that were only produced in small numbers — Image Credit: Wankel Rotary Engine / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Engines are the heart of any vehicle, and over the years, some truly unique powerplants have made their mark, albeit in limited numbers. These rare engines have powered iconic cars, left a legacy of innovation, and captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts around the world. Let’s take a closer look at eight rare engines that stand out for their exclusivity and impact.

Wankel Rotary Engine

The Wankel Rotary Engine, developed by Felix Wankel in the 1950s, is known for its compact size and smooth operation. Unlike traditional piston engines, it uses a rotary design with fewer moving parts. Mazda embraced this technology, most famously in the RX-7 and RX-8 models, producing a loyal fan base. However, due to its challenges with fuel efficiency and emissions, the Wankel engine was only produced in limited numbers.

Despite its rarity, the Wankel engine remains a symbol of Mazda’s innovative spirit. The roar of this rotary engine is unmistakable, and its enthusiasts appreciate the unique driving experience it offers, making it a sought-after piece of automotive history.

Cosworth DFV

The Cosworth DFV engine is a legend within the realm of Formula One racing. Developed in 1967 by Cosworth and funded by Ford, the DFV (Double Four Valve) dominated F1 racing for over a decade. It powered numerous championship-winning cars and was praised for its power, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. Despite its racing pedigree, the DFV was never mass-produced for road cars.

Its success on the track made it a favorite among racing teams, and it helped cement Cosworth’s reputation as a top-tier engine manufacturer. The DFV’s design influenced the development of many racing engines that followed, leaving an indelible mark on motorsport history.

Ferrari F50 V12

Image Credit: Charles from Port Chester, New York – Ferrari F50 (1995), via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

The Ferrari F50 V12 engine is a masterpiece of Italian engineering. Derived from Ferrari’s Formula One technology, this 4.7-liter V12 powered the limited-edition F50 supercar produced between 1995 and 1997. With only 349 units built, the F50 and its engine remain highly coveted by collectors.

Ferrari enthusiasts admire the F50 V12 for its performance and sound, as it provides an exhilarating driving experience reminiscent of a Formula One car. The engine’s rarity and its connection to Ferrari’s racing heritage make it a standout example of automotive excellence.

Tucker 589

Image Credit: F. D. Richards from Clinton, MI – via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

The Tucker 589 engine is an intriguing piece of automotive history. Developed by Preston Tucker for the innovative Tucker 48 sedan, this horizontally opposed, six-cylinder engine featured unique elements like direct drive and hydraulic valves. Unfortunately, due to legal and financial challenges, only 51 Tucker 48 cars were ever produced, making the engine extremely rare.

The Tucker 589 remains a symbol of automotive innovation and ambition. Its story is a fascinating chapter in the history of car manufacturing, and the engine itself is a testament to Tucker’s visionary ideas, even if it never reached mass production.

BMW S70/2

Image Credit: Dan Wildhirt – Own work, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

The BMW S70/2 engine is a powerhouse that gained fame as the heart of the iconic McLaren F1 supercar. This 6.1-liter V12 was known for its exceptional performance and engineering, helping the McLaren F1 set the record as the world’s fastest production car in the 1990s. With only 106 McLaren F1 units ever produced, the S70/2 engine is a rare piece of automotive history.

Renowned for its balance of power and reliability, the S70/2 exemplifies BMW’s engineering prowess. It continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors as one of the most remarkable engines ever created.

Chevrolet ZL1 V8

Image Credit: Charles from Port Chester, New York – Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupé, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

The Chevrolet ZL1 V8 is an engine that defined American muscle car culture. Introduced in 1969, this all-aluminum 427-cubic-inch V8 was designed for the Camaro and Corvette, offering blistering performance. However, due to its high cost, only 69 units were built, making it extremely rare.

Known for its lightweight construction and immense power, the ZL1 V8 remains an icon among muscle car enthusiasts. It embodies the spirit of performance and innovation that defined an era, and its scarcity only adds to its allure among collectors.

Subaru EA82T

Image Credit: Ken T1381 – Own work, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Subaru EA82T engine was a turbocharged variant of the EA82, introduced in the mid-1980s. It powered models like the Subaru XT and Leone, offering a boost in performance over standard engines. However, the EA82T saw limited production due to its complexity and the rise of newer engine technologies.

Despite its limited run, the EA82T is appreciated by Subaru fans for its role in the brand’s early turbocharging efforts. It laid the groundwork for Subaru’s future success with turbocharged engines, influencing models that followed in the decades to come.

Alfa Romeo Montreal V8

Image Credit: Thomas Vogt from Paderborn, Deutschland – Alfa Romeo Montreal, engine, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

The Alfa Romeo Montreal V8 engine was developed for the stylish Montreal coupe, produced between 1970 and 1977. This 2.6-liter V8 was derived from Alfa’s racing engines, offering a blend of performance and luxury. With just over 3,900 units built, the Montreal and its engine are relatively rare finds.

Alfa enthusiasts cherish the Montreal V8 for its distinctive sound and the driving pleasure it delivers. It’s a shining example of Alfa Romeo’s ability to blend performance with Italian elegance, making it a beloved classic among collectors.

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