Home Cars 15 Best Sounding Engines from the ’90s You Have to Hear to Believe

Cars

15 Best Sounding Engines from the ’90s You Have to Hear to Believe

Cameron Eittreim June 8, 2025

The 1990s were a golden age for automotive enthusiasts, not only for breathtaking designs and groundbreaking performance but also for some of the most memorable engine sounds ever produced. From the refined symphony of high-revving V12s to the raw, throaty roar of turbocharged inline-sixes, the decade offered an auditory feast unparalleled in modern automotive history. Manufacturers during this era prioritized character and driving excitement, creating engines with distinctive acoustic signatures that still send chills down enthusiasts’ spines today. Join us as we revisit 15 iconic engines from the ’90s that produced sounds so extraordinary, you truly have to hear them to believe.

NEXT >>

1. BMW S70/2 V12 (McLaren F1)

Crafted by BMW specifically for the iconic McLaren F1, the S70/2 V12 remains a masterpiece of automotive engineering. This naturally aspirated V12 produces an unmistakable, high-pitched howl reminiscent of pure race engines, rising dramatically in intensity as the revs climb. Its distinctive wail resonates deeply with enthusiasts, embodying the spirit of 1990s supercar performance and acoustic purity. With its effortless climb beyond 7,000 RPM, the S70/2 emits an intoxicating, spine-tingling soundtrack that has earned legendary status among car aficionados. Simply put, the McLaren F1’s V12 doesn’t just produce sound—it creates an unforgettable symphony of speed and precision.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Mazda 13B-REW Rotary (RX-7 FD)

Mazda’s RX-7 FD captured enthusiasts’ hearts in the ’90s, largely due to its unique rotary heart—the 13B-REW. This twin-rotor engine delivers a remarkably smooth, turbine-like whine that sets it apart from conventional piston-driven counterparts. As the revs soar towards its 8,000 RPM redline, the 13B emits a distinctive, high-frequency tone accompanied by a rhythmic burble from its exhaust, creating an auditory experience unlike any other. The RX-7’s rotary soundtrack is immediately recognizable, blending mechanical precision with an exotic, futuristic character that continues to captivate automotive fans decades later.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. Ferrari F355’s Tipo F129B V8

Few sounds define the passion of Italian automotive engineering quite like the Ferrari F355’s Tipo F129B V8. This naturally aspirated, precision-tuned powerhouse is celebrated for its spine-tingling scream as it approaches its 8,500 RPM redline. Blending mechanical purity with unmistakable exotic flair, the F355’s engine note resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate Ferrari’s meticulous craftsmanship and racing heritage. From idle to full throttle, the Tipo F129B emits a sophisticated yet aggressive crescendo, capturing the essence of Ferrari’s performance ethos in the ’90s. This iconic V8 remains a benchmark for automotive acoustics, embodying the soulful character of Italian motoring.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Honda C32B V6 (Acura NSX)

Nestled behind the cockpit of the Acura NSX, Honda’s C32B V6 engine stands as a testament to mechanical precision and engineering passion. Renowned for its silky-smooth power delivery and effortless climb toward an exhilarating 8,000 RPM redline, this naturally aspirated V6 produces an induction note that echoes Honda’s Formula 1 heritage. As revs rise, the C32B delivers a crisp, mechanical howl accompanied by an intoxicating intake resonance, creating an immersive and thrilling driving experience. Its refined yet aggressive character perfectly encapsulates the NSX’s unique blend of performance and sophistication, making it a beloved automotive soundtrack among enthusiasts.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Nissan RB26DETT Inline-six (Skyline GT-R R34)

Few engines from the ’90s evoke as much passion as Nissan’s RB26DETT, the potent twin-turbo inline-six powering the legendary Skyline GT-R R34. This engine is instantly recognizable by its deep, muscular exhaust note, punctuated by the unmistakable whistle and hiss of twin turbochargers spooling up. As boost pressure builds, the RB26DETT delivers a satisfying mechanical growl that intensifies dramatically towards its 8,000 RPM redline. This iconic soundtrack became symbolic of a generation obsessed with Japanese performance cars, capturing the raw spirit and intensity of Nissan’s motorsport heritage and cementing the GT-R’s status as an automotive legend.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Toyota 2JZ-GTE Inline-six (Supra A80)

Toyota’s 2JZ-GTE inline-six remains one of the most iconic engines of the ’90s, largely thanks to its powerful roar and unmistakable turbo whistle. Famed for its robust construction and seemingly limitless tuning potential, the 2JZ produces a deep, aggressive exhaust note accompanied by a sharp, resonant turbo spool that intensifies with rising boost. Immortalized in automotive culture through films, video games, and motorsport, the Supra A80’s engine sound became synonymous with Japanese performance excellence. Its unique combination of melodic turbocharged whine and muscular growl continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide, firmly establishing this engine as an automotive legend.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Porsche M64 Flat-six (911 Carrera 993)

The Porsche M64 flat-six engine powering the 993 Carrera symbolizes the very essence of the air-cooled era, producing a distinctive mechanical rasp that enthusiasts instantly recognize. At idle, its rhythmic boxer-engine pulse creates a captivating soundtrack, escalating into an exhilarating, metallic howl as revs climb toward the redline. This unique auditory signature blends precision German engineering with raw emotional appeal, encapsulating the spirit of classic Porsche sports cars. The 993 Carrera’s flat-six is revered not only for its performance but also for its unforgettable sound, embodying a perfect harmony between mechanical ingenuity and the pure joy of driving.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Audi 5-cylinder Turbo (Audi RS2 Avant)

Audi’s iconic turbocharged five-cylinder engine, as showcased in the RS2 Avant, produces a distinctive, rhythmic growl that echoes its rich motorsport heritage. Inspired by Audi’s rally dominance of the ’80s, this unique engine configuration delivers a deep, throaty exhaust note accompanied by an addictive turbo whistle as boost pressure builds. Its offbeat firing pattern creates an unmistakable auditory signature, characterized by a burbling idle that quickly transforms into a fierce, resonant howl under acceleration. For automotive enthusiasts, the RS2 Avant’s five-cylinder soundtrack captures the thrill and intensity of rally-bred performance, making it one of the decade’s most unforgettable engine sounds.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Chevrolet LT5 V8 (Corvette ZR-1)

Under the hood of the Corvette ZR-1 lies Chevrolet’s LT5 V8, a potent powerhouse born from an ambitious collaboration with Lotus. Renowned for its aggressive, throaty exhaust note, this high-revving engine embodies American muscle combined with European engineering finesse. At idle, the LT5 growls with an imposing yet refined burble, rapidly evolving into a thunderous roar as the revs climb. Its distinctive voice, blending raw power with mechanical sophistication, made the Corvette ZR-1 an automotive legend during the ’90s, captivating enthusiasts who craved a uniquely visceral driving experience that resonated long after the engine shut off.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Lamborghini V12 (Diablo)

Few automotive sounds match the sheer drama and flamboyance of Lamborghini’s legendary V12 powering the Diablo. With its operatic exhaust note, this naturally aspirated powerhouse delivers a robust, symphonic roar that’s unmistakably Italian. At lower RPMs, the Diablo’s V12 emits a deep, menacing growl, transforming into a soaring, spine-tingling howl as the needle approaches its redline. This exotic mechanical melody perfectly embodies Lamborghini’s uncompromising spirit and extravagant character, captivating enthusiasts with every throttle blip. The Diablo’s engine note isn’t just impressive—it’s an auditory experience that evokes emotion and excitement, solidifying its status as a ’90s supercar icon.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

11. Subaru EJ20 Boxer Engine (Impreza WRX STI)

Subaru’s turbocharged EJ20 boxer engine became legendary during the ’90s, thanks to its unmistakable deep, rumbling tone and rally-bred heritage. Defined by its horizontally opposed cylinders and unequal-length headers, this distinctive powerplant produces an aggressive idle that quickly escalates to a resonant, throaty growl under acceleration. Fans of motorsport will instantly recognize the EJ20’s signature burble, reminiscent of Subaru’s dominance in World Rally Championship events. Its uniquely mechanical and rhythmic soundtrack, coupled with the iconic whistle of the turbocharger, continues to captivate car enthusiasts, cementing the EJ20 as one of the decade’s most beloved engine sounds.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

12. Alfa Romeo Busso V6

Among automotive enthusiasts, few engines evoke emotion quite like Alfa Romeo’s legendary Busso V6. Celebrated for its melodic and soulful exhaust note, the Busso engine produces an unmistakably rich, resonant soundtrack that enthusiasts often describe as pure mechanical music. At low revs, it hums with a warm and inviting tone, transitioning into a passionate, operatic crescendo as it nears its redline. This charismatic Italian powerplant isn’t merely appreciated for its performance; it’s cherished for its ability to stir the soul and evoke passion with every press of the accelerator pedal—an auditory experience that continues to captivate enthusiasts decades later.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

13. Mitsubishi 4G63T Inline-four (Lancer Evolution VI)

Few four-cylinder engines have achieved iconic status quite like Mitsubishi’s turbocharged 4G63T, the heart of the legendary Lancer Evolution VI. Celebrated for its aggressive turbo spool and raw, mechanical exhaust note, this engine delivers an intense and visceral acoustic experience reminiscent of rally stages worldwide. At idle, the 4G63T growls with purposeful aggression, quickly escalating into a sharp, resonant howl as boost pressure builds. Its distinctive blend of turbo whistle and unapologetic mechanical character perfectly captures Mitsubishi’s motorsport heritage, cementing the Evo VI as a symbol of performance excellence and thrilling enthusiasts who crave an authentic, motorsport-inspired soundtrack.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

14. Ford Modular V8 (Mustang SVT Cobra)

Ford’s Modular V8 engine, featured prominently in the Mustang SVT Cobra, perfectly encapsulates the essence of American muscle from the ’90s. Renowned for its deep, throaty roar and unmistakably aggressive exhaust note, this engine transforms any drive into an exhilarating experience. At idle, the Modular V8 produces a rhythmic, rumbling growl, quickly escalating into a powerful, spine-tingling symphony under full throttle. Its distinctive auditory character, blending raw power with mechanical intensity, pays homage to Ford’s storied muscle-car heritage. Enthusiasts continue to cherish this engine’s visceral appeal, making the Cobra’s Modular V8 one of the decade’s most unforgettable soundtracks.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

15. Mercedes-Benz M120 V12 (SL600)

Mercedes-Benz’s M120 V12 engine, featured prominently in the luxurious SL600, exemplifies refined German engineering through its uniquely smooth yet authoritative acoustic signature. This meticulously crafted powerplant emits a dignified, velvety hum at idle, seamlessly evolving into a commanding yet effortlessly elegant growl under acceleration. The M120’s distinctive sound profile perfectly mirrors its sophisticated performance, delivering ample power with unmatched composure. Its harmonious blend of mechanical smoothness and understated authority symbolizes the pinnacle of automotive luxury from the ’90s, making the SL600’s V12 a revered auditory hallmark for aficionados who appreciate refined motoring at its very best.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Conclusion

The ’90s gifted automotive enthusiasts with some of the most unforgettable engine sounds ever produced, each brimming with unique character and distinctive acoustic signatures. From the melodious howl of Italian V12s to the turbocharged growls of Japanese performance legends, these iconic engines continue to resonate deeply, decades after their debut. Their enduring appeal lies not only in performance, but in their unmatched ability to stir emotions and create lasting memories. If you haven’t yet experienced these legendary sounds firsthand, take a moment to listen—each one is a vivid reminder of an era when automotive passion was celebrated through sound.

.article-content-img img { width: 100% }

<< Previous

15 Best Sounding Engines from the ’90s You Have to Hear to Believe

1. BMW S70/2 V12 (McLaren F1)

2. Mazda 13B-REW Rotary (RX-7 FD)

3. Ferrari F355’s Tipo F129B V8

4. Honda C32B V6 (Acura NSX)

5. Nissan RB26DETT Inline-six (Skyline GT-R R34)

6. Toyota 2JZ-GTE Inline-six (Supra A80)

7. Porsche M64 Flat-six (911 Carrera 993)

8. Audi 5-cylinder Turbo (Audi RS2 Avant)

9. Chevrolet LT5 V8 (Corvette ZR-1)

10. Lamborghini V12 (Diablo)

11. Subaru EJ20 Boxer Engine (Impreza WRX STI)

12. Alfa Romeo Busso V6

13. Mitsubishi 4G63T Inline-four (Lancer Evolution VI)

14. Ford Modular V8 (Mustang SVT Cobra)

15. Mercedes-Benz M120 V12 (SL600)

Conclusion

POPULAR