The most produced engine in history is not from Toyota: meet GM’s V8 that has already surpassed 100 million units

When it comes to the world’s best-selling car, the answer is almost always the same: the Toyota Corolla . With over 50 million units sold since its launch in the 1960s, the Japanese sedan has become a global legend. But there’s another, lesser-known—and even more impressive—record that doesn’t belong to Toyota, but to General Motors : the most-produced engine in history .

With over 100 million units manufactured , GM’s legendary V8 engine , originally known as the Small Block , is a true institution of automotive engineering. Since its debut in 1955, this engine has gone through several generations, powering everything from sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette to pickup trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles from the American giant.

A legend born in the 50s

The story began in 1955, when General Motors realized its six-cylinder engines were no longer sufficient for the most powerful models of the time. That’s when the Small Block V8 was born , boasting a compact design, lightweight construction, and surprising performance for the standards of the time. It debuted in the Corvette, but quickly began powering models like the Impala, the Bel Air, and, later, the famous C/K pickup trucks.

According to the National Corvette Museum , the Small Block’s success was so great that it became a pillar of GM’s identity for decades, being continually modernized without losing its essence.

Evolution and rebirth: from Small Blocks to LS and LT blocks

The engine has evolved significantly over time. In the 1990s, it gave rise to the iconic LS series , which took performance and efficiency to new heights. This new generation soon became a benchmark for sports tuning , engine swaps, and modifications, becoming a favorite among enthusiasts and mechanics worldwide—including in Brazil.

Today, we’re in the third generation of this line: the LT engines , launched in 2013, which power models like the Chevrolet Corvette , Cadillac Escalade , Chevrolet Suburban , and Silverado . GM has already confirmed that it is working on developing a fourth generation , scheduled for release in 2027 , promising more power, lower fuel consumption, and reduced emissions. See more details on the GM Powertrain website.

Mexico and Latin America are also part of this story

Few people know, but Latin America—especially Mexico —played a crucial role in the history of this engine. In 1973, GM began producing the Small Block V8 at its Toluca plant , and millions of units were produced there over the decades. This allowed the engine to power several models sold in countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Argentina.

In Brazil, adapted versions of the V8 were even seen in imported pickup trucks, special fleets, and vehicles tuned for racing or agricultural use. Although not as popular here as the four-cylinder Family II engines, GM’s V8 is still regarded with respect and admiration among power enthusiasts.

While other brands give up, GM doubles down on the V8

General Motors’ stance contrasts sharply with that of other utomakers. RAM , for example, discontinued its famous HEMI V8 engine , citing sustainability concerns. The decision was so unpopular that, according to MotorTrend , the brand had to backtrack after consumer pressure—and this cost its CEO his job.

Meanwhile, GM remains steadfast: even with the advance of electrification, it has no intention of abandoning the V8. “There is still demand for high-performance engines, especially in markets like North and Latin America,” said Mary Barra , the company’s CEO, during a recent press conference at the Detroit Auto Show .

And in Brazil?

Although the Brazilian market’s focus is increasingly on small, turbocharged, and hybrid engines, the fascination with V8s hasn’t faded. In the world of racing, such as Old Stock Racing and Hot Rod , GM’s V8 engine remains the heart of the most admired cars on the track.

Furthermore, some models like the Silverado, which recently returned to Brazil in a limited version, still offer this engine, reinforcing its appeal to the luxury and high-performance public.