
Several high-performance sports cars and supercars have featured V10 engines, but your best bet for a current production model is the R8 or its sibling, the Lamborghini Huracán. These two share an engine, a legendary 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 that delivers incredible power and an unforgettable exhaust note. However, V10s are rare because they are complex and expensive to build, so almost all are found in exotic, high-end vehicles.
Historically, there have been some iconic V10-powered cars. The Dodge Viper is a famous American example, known for its massive, raw power. The BMW M5 (E60 generation) and M6 from the mid-2000s used a high-revving V10, bringing F1-inspired technology to a sedan. The Porsche Carrera GT supercar also featured a racing-derived V10. If you're looking at trucks, the Ford Excursion and some heavy-duty Ford Super Duty trucks offered a 6.8-liter Triton V10 as an option.
Here’s a quick comparison of some notable V10-powered cars:
| Model | Engine Displacement | Approximate Horsepower | Production Years | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi R8 V10 Performance | 5.2L | 602 hp | 2019-Present | Everyday usability supercar |
| Lamborghini Huracán STO | 5.2L | 630 hp | 2020-2024 | Track-focused, lightweight |
| Dodge Viper SRT (Final Gen) | 8.4L | 645 hp | 2013-2017 | Raw, high-displacement American muscle |
| BMW M5 (E60) | 5.0L | 500 hp | 2005-2010 | F1-inspired V10 in a luxury sedan |
| Porsche Carrera GT | 5.7L | 605 hp | 2004-2007 | Ultimate analog supercar experience |
| Ford Excursion (Truck) | 6.8L | 310 hp | 2000-2005 | Torque-heavy engine for towing |
The key appeal of a V10 is its unique balance. It’s smoother than a V8 and has a more visceral, aggressive sound than a V12. For a driving enthusiast, the linear power delivery and screaming high-RPM soundtrack of an engine like the one in the R8 are a special experience. Just be prepared for higher maintenance costs compared to more common engine configurations.

You're talking about some serious metal. Right now, the main ones are the R8 and the Lamborghini Huracán—they're basically the same incredible engine. If you're looking for something older and totally unhinged, find a Dodge Viper. That 8.4-liter V10 is a beast. For a real oddball, the BMW M5 sedan had one back in the day. It's a rare find but a legendary car.

From an standpoint, the V10 configuration offers a unique compromise. It provides better primary balance than a V8, reducing vibration, without the complexity and weight of a V12. This is why it was attractive for high-revving applications like the BMW M5's F1-inspired engine. The firing order creates that distinctive, uneven exhaust pulse, which is a key part of its character. Today, they are a niche choice, as turbocharged V8s often deliver similar or better power more efficiently.

Honestly, it's a short and expensive list. Your most realistic option is a used R8. It's the most "attainable" V10 supercar and is known for being relatively reliable. The sound it makes is absolutely intoxicating. Beyond that, you're looking at six-figure maintenance bills for Lamborghinis or chasing down classic collector cars like the Viper or Porsche Carrera GT. It's a dream engine for a reason—the cost of entry and ownership is significant.

I remember when the V10 M5 came out. It was a revelation—a proper supercar engine tucked into a four-door family car. You could take the kids to school and then blast to 60 mph in under 5 seconds with a screaming F1 soundtrack. That's the magic of a V10; it's an event. Today, that high-revving, naturally aspirated experience is disappearing in favor of turbochargers. The ones that are left, like the R8's engine, feel special because they are a dying breed.


