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Still Going Strong: 20 Cars That Refuse to Quit

Cameron Eittreim July 5, 2025

There’s something undeniably captivating about cars that defy time and mileage, earning reputations as unbreakable legends of the road. These vehicles aren’t just modes of transportation—they’re trusted companions, often passed down through generations.
What sets these machines apart? Their enduring appeal lies in a rare blend of reliability, robust engineering, and timeless design. While many cars fade into obscurity with age, a select few continue to rack up miles with unwavering dependability.
In this article, we celebrate twenty of these automotive icons—cars that consistently outlast their peers, becoming symbols of resilience and benchmarks of quality in the ever-evolving world of automobiles.

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1. Toyota Land Cruiser

Few vehicles embody indestructibility quite like the Toyota Land Cruiser. Renowned for conquering the world’s toughest terrains, it’s the go-to choice for adventurers, explorers, and humanitarian missions alike.
From the arid deserts of Africa to the rugged outback of Australia, high-mileage Land Cruisers are a common sight, often surpassing 300,000 miles with original engines and drivetrains.
Its global reach and legendary durability have cemented its status as a vehicle you can always rely on, no matter how remote your journey. As MotorTrend notes, the Land Cruiser remains a symbol of toughness wherever wheels touch the ground.

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2. Honda Accord

1200px Honda Accord %28cv3%29 Ex Ehev%2c 2021%2c Rear — A sleek Honda Accord midsize sedan sits parked curbside, showcasing its reputation as a stylish and reliable car. | Photo by Yusuf Kayode on Pexels

The Honda Accord has become synonymous with long-lasting dependability and everyday comfort.
Praised for its smooth ride and practical design, the Accord regularly appears in lists of vehicles that surpass the 200,000-mile mark. Owners appreciate its low maintenance costs and high resale value, making it a smart investment for families and commuters alike.
This sedan’s enduring popularity is no accident—its robust engineering and attention to detail keep it running strong, year after year. According to U.S. News & World Report, the Accord is a standout choice for those seeking a car that refuses to quit.

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3. Volvo 240

1985 Volvo 240d — A beautifully preserved classic Volvo 240 shines in the sunlight, showcasing the timeless appeal of vintage Swedish engineering. | Photo by rescriptt rescriptt on Pexels

The Volvo 240 has achieved cult status among enthusiasts for its legendary durability and straightforward engineering.
Built like a tank, this iconic Swedish sedan and wagon often serves as a family heirloom, with many examples still daily-driven after several decades. Owners frequently boast of odometers rolling well past 300,000 miles, a testament to the 240’s rugged construction and reliable powertrain.
Its boxy silhouette has become a symbol of practical longevity, drawing admiration from fans around the world. As Hagerty notes, the Volvo 240 is not just a car—it’s a lasting legacy on wheels.

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4. Toyota Corolla

1200px toyota corolla e180 sedan 01 china 2015 04 06 — A sleek Toyota Corolla shines under the daylight, showcasing the stylish design of this popular compact economy vehicle. | Photo by Matt Jenssen on Pexels

The Toyota Corolla stands as a global icon, celebrated for its unwavering reliability and practical design.
Simple yet efficient, the Corolla’s straightforward engineering makes it easy to maintain and astonishingly durable, with countless examples reaching well beyond 200,000 miles. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs only add to its universal appeal.
It’s no wonder the Corolla consistently ranks among the world’s best-selling cars—drivers trust it to deliver year after year, regardless of climate or road conditions. As Car and Driver highlights, the Corolla’s reputation for longevity is simply unmatched in the compact car segment.

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5. Mercedes-Benz W123

The Mercedes-Benz W123 is revered for its overengineered build and near-indestructible diesel engines.
Produced from the late 1970s through the mid-1980s, the W123 became the backbone of taxi fleets from Europe to Africa, often seen with half a million miles—or more—on the clock. Its solid construction and simple mechanicals make it easy to maintain, even decades after production ended.
Today, it’s not uncommon to spot these sedans and wagons still in daily service. As Classic Driver notes, the W123 stands as an enduring testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and durability.

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6. Subaru Outback

1200px subaru legacy outback%2csubaru outback %28bt%29 china — A rugged Subaru Outback crossover wagon stands ready for adventure, its all-wheel drive perfect for any terrain. | Photo by Jonathan Cooper on Pexels

The Subaru Outback has earned its reputation as a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle, perfectly suited for both adventurous spirits and busy families.
Its standard all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and rugged construction allow it to tackle snowy commutes, gravel roads, and weekend camping trips with ease. Owners consistently praise the Outback for its dependability and ability to rack up high mileage without fuss.
According to Edmunds, the Outback’s blend of comfort, versatility, and reliability has made it a staple in regions where harsh weather and outdoor pursuits are simply part of daily life.

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7. Ford Crown Victoria

The Ford Crown Victoria is a legend on North American roads, celebrated for its resilience and unwavering toughness.
Beloved by police departments and taxi companies, the Crown Vic’s simple body-on-frame design and robust V8 engine made it a favorite for high-mileage, heavy-duty use. Its straightforward mechanics allow for easy repairs, keeping these sedans in service long after their initial retirement.
As Jalopnik points out, many Crown Victorias continue to rack up impressive mileage, cementing their reputation as one of the most durable American cars ever built.

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8. Honda Civic

Few cars can match the Honda Civic when it comes to all-around dependability and low cost of ownership.
Beloved by commuters for its fuel efficiency and minimal maintenance needs, the Civic is also a favorite among enthusiasts for its adaptable platform and spirited driving experience. Many Civics routinely surpass the 200,000-mile milestone, a testament to Honda’s commitment to quality engineering.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the Civic’s combination of reliability, affordability, and lasting value ensures its place as a go-to choice for drivers who want a car that simply won’t give up.

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9. Jeep Cherokee XJ

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is the very definition of rugged simplicity, earning a loyal following among off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
Its solid-axle suspension and legendary inline-six engine give it unmatched durability both on and off the beaten path. Many XJs, despite their age, continue to tackle trails and commutes with ease, often sporting hundreds of thousands of miles.
As Road & Track highlights, the Cherokee XJ’s no-nonsense engineering and exceptional capability have helped it remain a fixture on roads—and trails—long after production ended.

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10. Lexus LS400

The Lexus LS400 redefined luxury with its meticulous engineering and unwavering reliability.
Powered by a silky-smooth V8 engine, the LS400 set a new standard for refinement while delivering the kind of durability more commonly associated with utilitarian vehicles. Owners frequently report odometers surpassing 300,000 miles, with minimal issues along the way.
This luxury sedan’s bulletproof reputation is no accident—Toyota’s relentless pursuit of perfection is evident in every detail. As The Drive notes, the LS400 remains a benchmark for reliability, proving that true luxury can stand the test of time.

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11. Toyota Hilux

The Toyota Hilux has achieved near-mythic status thanks to its unparalleled toughness and ability to survive almost anything.
Whether braving the frozen Arctic, navigating deserts, or enduring punishing stunts, the Hilux simply refuses to quit. Its legendary durability was famously put to the test by BBC Top Gear, who tried—and failed—to destroy it through a series of extreme challenges.
Farmers, explorers, and emergency services around the world rely on the Hilux to perform day after day, proving it truly deserves its reputation as the indestructible workhorse of the pickup world.

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12. Volvo 850

The Volvo 850 played a pivotal role in solidifying Volvo’s reputation for safety and dependability.
Introduced in the early 1990s, the 850 showcased a robust design, with a famously strong chassis and innovative safety features. Its practical wagon and sedan forms offered versatility for families, while the reliable five-cylinder engines easily passed the high-mileage mark.
Owners often report driving their 850s for decades, a testament to its solid engineering and thoughtful construction. As AutoTrader explains, the Volvo 850 remains a symbol of lasting Nordic resilience—both safe and steadfast through the years.

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13. Chevrolet Suburban

1280px chevrolet suburban 2004 2 — A spacious Chevrolet Suburban SUV gleams in the driveway, ready to take the family on their next adventure. | Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels

The Chevrolet Suburban stands as a true American legend, holding the title for the longest-running nameplate in automotive history since its debut in the 1930s.
Renowned for its spaciousness and durability, the Suburban has served generations as the ultimate family hauler, road trip companion, and even a trusted vehicle for law enforcement and emergency services. Its rugged body-on-frame construction and powerful engines ensure it can endure decades of daily use.
As Car and Driver notes, the Suburban’s proven longevity and unmatched versatility have secured its place as an enduring icon on American roads.

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14. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is proof that simplicity and smart engineering can create a car that endures both in spirit and on the road.
Its lightweight, no-frills design keeps mechanical stress low, while Mazda’s renowned reliability ensures that these sporty convertibles often surpass 200,000 miles with ease. Enthusiasts love the Miata for its minimal maintenance and ease of repair, keeping older models on the road—and on the track—decades after their debut.
As Road & Track highlights, the Miata’s lasting popularity is a direct result of its durable, joyful, and straightforward approach to motoring.

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15. Ford F-150

2017 Ford F 150 Raptor Left Rear Angle — A rugged Ford F-150 pickup truck stands ready for the day’s work, showcasing its strength and reliability. | Photo by Jean Marc Bonnel on Pexels

The Ford F-150 has earned its place as America’s best-selling truck, thanks to its relentless work ethic and impressive longevity.
Built to withstand the demands of construction sites, farms, and family chores alike, the F-150’s tough frame and dependable engines often see these trucks cross the 200,000-mile threshold—and keep going strong. Owners praise its ability to handle just about any job, with high-mileage examples still working hard decades after rolling off the assembly line.
As MotorTrend notes, the F-150’s reputation for durability is a cornerstone of its lasting popularity and widespread trust among drivers.

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16. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class blends military heritage with uncompromising engineering, resulting in a vehicle revered for its ruggedness and resilience.
Originally developed as a military transport, the G-Class—or “G-Wagen”—features a boxy design and stout ladder-frame chassis, making it exceptionally durable on and off the road. Its ability to tackle extreme terrains, from mountains to deserts, is legendary.
Owners and adventurers worldwide trust the G-Class to survive the harshest conditions, often seeing these SUVs run strong for decades. According to the Mercedes-Benz Official site, the G-Class stands as a lasting symbol of endurance and capability.

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17. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has become a staple for families and commuters seeking a practical, low-maintenance SUV that simply keeps going.
Its efficient engines, roomy interior, and reputation for reliability mean many CR-Vs easily surpass 200,000 miles with minimal fuss. Owners routinely cite the CR-V’s low running costs and straightforward maintenance as reasons for their long-term satisfaction.
According to Consumer Reports, the CR-V’s durability and user-friendly design make it a perennial favorite for those who want peace of mind and a vehicle that refuses to quit, mile after mile.

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18. Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is celebrated for its steadfast reliability and confidence-inspiring all-wheel-drive system, making it a top pick for drivers facing tough weather and challenging roads.
Whether braving snowstorms or navigating muddy backroads, the Forester’s rugged engineering ensures it remains a dependable companion for years to come. Many owners report clocking well over 200,000 miles with only routine maintenance.
As U.S. News & World Report notes, the Forester’s durability, practical design, and surefooted handling have earned it a loyal following, particularly in regions where Mother Nature doesn’t hold back.

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19. BMW E30 3 Series

The BMW E30 3 Series remains a cherished classic among enthusiasts, thanks to its robust engineering and timeless design.
Built in the 1980s and early 1990s, the E30’s solid construction and responsive handling have helped it endure as both a daily driver and a track favorite. Many well-maintained examples still roam roads and racetracks worldwide, often with high mileage and original drivetrains.
According to Classic & Sports Car, the E30’s ongoing appeal lies in its perfect blend of driving excitement and legendary BMW reliability, making it a true survivor in the world of classic cars.

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20. Toyota Camry

1200px Toyota Camry %28xv30%29 China — A sleek Toyota Camry midsize sedan parked on a city street, showcasing its reputation as a reliable car. | Photo by Nate Biddle on Pexels

The Toyota Camry has built a rock-solid reputation for bulletproof reliability and effortless ownership.
Year after year, the Camry appears at the top of ‘most reliable’ car lists, thanks to its durable powertrains, straightforward maintenance, and high resale value. Owners often drive their Camrys well past 200,000 miles, confident in the sedan’s ability to deliver worry-free transportation.
As Edmunds explains, the Camry’s blend of comfort, practicality, and lasting quality has made it a perennial favorite—and a symbol of what it means for a car to truly refuse to quit.

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Built to Last

From rugged off-roaders to steadfast family sedans, these twenty cars prove that robust engineering, thoughtful design, and a reputation for reliability are the keys to true automotive longevity.
Their enduring presence on roads across the globe is a testament to the value of quality and dependability—traits that never go out of style. Whether navigating city streets or conquering untamed landscapes, these icons have become more than just transportation; they are trusted companions and lasting legacies.
If you’re seeking a car that stands the test of time, let these legends inspire your next great automotive adventure.

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Still Going Strong: 20 Cars That Refuse to Quit

1. Toyota Land Cruiser

2. Honda Accord

3. Volvo 240

4. Toyota Corolla

5. Mercedes-Benz W123

6. Subaru Outback

7. Ford Crown Victoria

8. Honda Civic

9. Jeep Cherokee XJ

10. Lexus LS400

11. Toyota Hilux

12. Volvo 850

13. Chevrolet Suburban

14. Mazda MX-5 Miata

15. Ford F-150

16. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

17. Honda CR-V

18. Subaru Forester

19. BMW E30 3 Series

20. Toyota Camry

Built to Last

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