V8 Engine Car Guide India: Real-World Performance and Experiences

V8-powered cars in India are about more than 8 cylinders—they’re about the feeling they create. From the deep growl of the engine to the smooth surge of power, these machines offer a driving experience that’s hard to match. It’s no surprise they’ve won over both driving enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Even Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is known for his love of powerful rides, with several V8-powered luxury cars in his collection.

This article brings together real-world insights into this list of V8 engine cars in India, featuring five standout models. It explores how these vehicles perform, the challenges of owning them, and why they continue to stir passion—despite rising costs and tougher emissions rules.

Land Rover Defender Octa [The Apex of Off-Road Dominance]

Rooted in Land Rover’s expedition legacy, the Defender Octa brings modern engineering to a classic nameplate. As one of the most capable V8 engine cars in India, it blends rugged power with refined luxury, making it ideal for the country’s toughest terrains and chaotic urban streets alike.

Uncompromising Power in Rugged Terrain:

Powered by a 4.4L BMW-sourced twin-turbo V8 (626 BHP, 750 Nm), the Octa transforms into a mountain-ready powerhouse—especially effective in Himalayan regions. Its 6D Dynamics suspension with hydraulic dampers balances control on rocky trails and comfort in city traffic. In “Octa Mode,” it sprints 0–100 kmph in 4.2 seconds—0.4s quicker than the AMG G63. However, its need for 95 RON fuel can complicate long-distance travel in remote areas.

Urban Adaptability and Lifestyle Appeal:

Despite its 2.8-tonne weight, the Octa maneuvers city streets well thanks to Rear Axle Steering (10.9 m turning radius). Owners in Delhi and Mumbai praise its street presence—particularly in “Narvik Black” with 20-inch forged wheels—often attracting attention at traffic signals and social media posts.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance [The Silent Assassin]

Blending AMG muscle with hybrid tech, the S 63 E Performance stands out among 8-cylinder cars, offering silent luxury and explosive performance in equal measure—perfect for buyers who want both refinement and raw power in one package.

Hybridized Brutality:

Its 802 BHP output combines a 612 BHP twin-turbo V8 with a 190 BHP electric motor. Owners describe a dual personality: quiet EV commutes through Bengaluru and instant performance when fully unleashed. The 13.1 kWh battery offers a real-world 33 km electric range in traffic, while hybrid mode yields 6.8 km/L on Mumbai-Pune expressway runs.

Chauffeur-Defying Dynamics:

Despite its 2.5-tonne weight, Active Roll Stabilization and Rear-Axle Steering give it sports car agility. Some owners recorded 1.05 lateral g on Chennai-Bengaluru cloverleafs. However, low 172 mm ground clearance results in occasional scrapes, even with the Hydraulic Lift System engaged.

Ford Mustang GT [Blue-Collar Hero]

The Ford Mustang GT holds a special place among Indian V8 enthusiasts as a symbol of accessible muscle. While many premium cars now feature turbocharged V8 engines, the Mustang stays true to its naturally aspirated roots—raw, loud, and unapologetically fun. Its mechanical simplicity, aggressive pricing, and solid support network have helped it thrive as a mainstream icon in a niche dominated by ultra-luxury nameplates.

Adaptable American Muscle:

The 5.0L Coyote V8 in the Mustang GT has developed a cult following for its resilience to India’s fuel quality challenges. Long-term owners (50,000+ km) report the engine tolerates 91 RON fuel without knock sensor issues, albeit with a 7% power reduction compared to US-spec models. The quad-exhaust system’s bass-heavy soundtrack remains intact, creating signature auditory drama in cities like Surat where owners organize “Rumble Nights” at local car meets.

Daily-Driving Surprises:

Contrary to its muscle car image, the Mustang’s MagneRide dampers and 15.4:1 steering ratio make it surprisingly viable for daily use. A Bengaluru-based owner documented a 1,200 km round trip to Coorg, averaging 8.3 km/L while comfortably accommodating four adults and luggage. The aftermarket ecosystem thrives through platforms like AmericanMuscle.com, where Indian owners source cold-air intakes and tuning kits, often circumventing customs through “personal import” loopholes.

Lamborghini Urus Performante [Track Weapon Reimagined]

The Urus Performante blurs the line between SUV and supercar, standing out among luxury performance SUVs by delivering dramatic performance with a hint of practicality—making it a favorite among India’s elite enthusiasts.

Tarmac Terror:

Its 666 BHP twin-turbo V8 rockets from 0–100 kmph in 3.2 seconds and 0–200 in 10.9, confirmed at the Buddh Circuit. Owners value the Akrapovič exhaust’s anti-lag tech, which sustains boost pressure—ideal for quick overtakes on narrow highways.

Compromised Comfort:

Despite its prowess, the Performante’s 20mm lowered suspension and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires (265/45 front, 305/40 rear) struggle with Indian road imperfections. A Mumbai-based owner reported replacing two cracked 22-inch wheels within six months, with repair costs exceeding ₹4 lakh. The carbon-ceramic brakes (440mm front discs) exhibit phenomenal stopping power but generate excessive dust, requiring weekly cleaning to maintain their signature gold finish.

Range Rover Sport SVR: The Gentleman’s Bruiser

Combining old-school V8 charm with British craftsmanship, the Range Rover Sport SVR delivers a unique blend of aristocratic luxury and raw performance. As one of the most refined V8 cars for Indian roads, it walks a fine line between dignified cruiser and raucous powerhouse—making it the preferred choice for those who want their adrenaline rush served with a touch of class.

Velvet-Fisted Performance:

The 5.0L Supercharged V8 in the SVR produces 575 BHP, propelling this 2.4-tonne SUV to 100 kmph in 4.5 seconds—a figure verified by multiple owners using Racelogic VBox devices. The active exhaust system’s “popcorn” overrun cracks during deceleration have become a signature trait, with Delhi owners programming the Terrain Response 2 system to maintain open valves in city driving.

Thermal Management Challenges:

Owners in Rajasthan and Gujarat report heat soak issues during sustained high-speed runs, with intake air temperatures exceeding 60°C and power dropping by 12% during summer months. The factory-fitted Meridian sound system’s 23 speakers struggle to overcome cabin resonance at V8 frequencies above 4,000 RPM, necessitating aftermarket sound damping installations.

Comparative Real-World Operating Costs [Fuel Economy Realities]

• Defender Octa: 3.2 km/L (city), 5.1 km/L (highway)

• S 63 E Performance: 6.8 km/L (hybrid), 4.1 km/L (V8-only)

• Mustang GT: 5.9 km/L (city), 8.3 km/L (highway)

• Urus Performante: 2.8 km/L (city), 4.9 km/L (track)

• Range Rover SVR: 3.1 km/L (city), 5.6 km/L (highway)

Data Compiled from Owner Forums and Fuel-log Apps.

Maintenance Surprises:

The Urus Performante demands the most frequent servicing at 6-month/5,000 km intervals, with annual maintenance averaging ₹9.5 lakh. Conversely, the Mustang GT’s 15,000 km service intervals and ₹1.2 lakh average cost make it the most affordable V8 proposition. The S 63’s high-voltage battery adds complexity, with a single cell replacement costing ₹18 lakh—though covered under the 8-year warranty.

Conclusion: The V8 Paradox in India

These vehicles prove V8 engines still thrive in India, offering more than just performance—they deliver emotional, unforgettable experiences. From the Defender’s off-road dominance to the Mustang’s accessible muscle, each car has its own loyal following. Despite high running costs, a growing base of over 12,000 V8 owners shows the demand is strong. With innovations like synthetic fuel compatibility (e.g., Porsche-approved eFuels for the Urus) and engine remanufacturing, these icons may endure well beyond the fossil fuel era.