For car enthusiasts, the allure of a V12 engine is undeniable. The smooth power delivery, the unique sound, and the prestige associated with these engines make them highly desirable. However, owning a car with a V12 engine is often associated with high costs. This article aims to debunk that myth by presenting a list of affordable cars equipped with V12 engines.
1. Jaguar XJS V12
The Jaguar XJS V12 is a classic example of an affordable car with a V12 engine. Used models from the 1980s and 1990s often come with a reliable 5.3-liter V12 engine and are available for under $10,000. The AJ6 V12 variant provides 262 horsepower, making it suitable for everyday drivability. Used prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition and mileage. Source
2. BMW 750iL (E32)
The BMW 750iL (E32), a flagship sedan from the 1990s, features a 5.0-liter M70 V12 engine producing 300 horsepower. Well-maintained used models can be found for around $8,000. The V12 versions are prized for their silky operation and offer an affordable entry point into BMW’s V12 heritage without excessive maintenance costs. Source
3. Mercedes-Benz S600 (W140)
The Mercedes-Benz S600 (W140) is a 1990s luxury sedan known for its bulletproof build and presence. It packs a 6.0-liter M120 V12 engine with 389 horsepower and can be found used for $7,000-$12,000. The W140 S600 set standards for opulent V12 motoring when it debuted in 1991. Source
4. BMW 850Ci
The BMW 850Ci is a 1990s coupe celebrated for its grand touring poise and iconic styling. It boasts a 5.4-liter M73 V12 delivering 322 horsepower, with clean examples available for under $15,000. The M73 V12 is noted as one of the best-sounding BMW engines ever. Source
5. Mercedes-Benz SL600 (R129)
The Mercedes-Benz SL600 (R129) is a convertible roadster from the 1990s that features a 6.0-liter M120 V12 engine with 402 horsepower. Used models can be purchased for $10,000-$20,000. Some configurations exceed 500 total system power, making it a bargain powerhouse. Source
6. Jaguar XJ12 (XJ81)
The Jaguar XJ12 (XJ81) is an 1980s executive sedan that employs a 5.3-liter V12 engine with 262 horsepower. Used models can be found for $6,000 or less. Fuel-injected versions from 1986-1992 improve efficiency over carbureted predecessors. Source
7. Volkswagen Phaeton W12
The Volkswagen Phaeton W12 is an understated 2000s luxury sedan with a 6.0-liter W12 engine producing 420 horsepower. Used prices can dip to $5,000, proving the accessibility of German engineering. The W12 configuration is a compact 12-cylinder design for superior refinement. Source
8. Audi A8L W12
The Audi A8L W12 is a long-wheelbase 2000s flagship that includes a 6.0-liter W12 engine with 444 horsepower. Used models can be found for under $12,000. The D3-generation W12 models prioritize quiet luxury and are surprisingly affordable despite high-tech features like adaptive air suspension. Source
9. Ferrari 400/412
The Ferrari 400/412 are 1970s-1980s grand tourers that feature a 4.8- to 5.0-liter Colombo V12 engine with around 340 horsepower. Project cars can be found for under $20,000. The Colombo V12 is hailed as one of the best ever made for its sonorous character. Source
10. Toyota Century (1st Gen)
The Toyota Century, Japan’s imperial sedan from the 1970s-1990s, uses a 5.0-liter 1GZ-GE V12 engine with 276 horsepower. Rare used imports can be found for around $15,000. The 1GZ-GE V12 debuted in 1997 but earlier versions trace back to 1967 origins. Source