When it comes to high-performance vehicles, the choice of engine can make all the difference. While some car enthusiasts may be familiar with the powerhouses like the Noble M600 and Toyota 2000GT, many are unaware of the lesser-known gems that also boast Yamaha-built engines under their hoods. These machines, often overshadowed by their more mainstream counterparts, showcase the engineering prowess and versatility of Yamaha beyond motorcycles.
One such vehicle is the 1989 Ford Taurus SHO, a sedan that packed a punch with its Yamaha-designed V6 engine. The Taurus SHO, short for Super High Output, was a collaboration between Ford and Yamaha, resulting in a car that combined family-friendly practicality with sporty performance. This unique pairing marked Yamaha’s foray into the world of American muscle cars, leaving a lasting impact on automotive enthusiasts.
Moving across the Atlantic, the Volvo S60R and V70R are two more examples of performance cars that benefited from Yamaha’s engineering expertise. These Swedish models, known for their understated yet potent performance capabilities, featured Yamaha-tuned engines that delivered a thrilling driving experience. The partnership between Volvo and Yamaha highlighted the demand for powerful yet refined engines in the luxury car segment.
In Japan, the overlooked gem known as the Autobacs Garaiya deserves a mention for its Yamaha-sourced powerplant. The Garaiya, a lightweight sports car that gained a cult following for its nimble handling and impressive acceleration, was powered by a Yamaha-developed inline-four engine. Despite its limited production numbers, the Garaiya’s performance credentials solidified Yamaha’s reputation as a provider of cutting-edge engine technology.
On the track, the OX99-11 stands out as a testament to Yamaha’s engineering prowess in the realm of supercars. Designed in the early 1990s as a showcase of Yamaha’s capabilities, the OX99-11 featured a high-revving V12 engine developed specifically for this exotic sports car. Although only a handful were ever produced, the OX99-11 remains a symbol of Yamaha’s ambition to push the boundaries of automotive innovation.
In conclusion, while Yamaha may be best known for its motorcycles and musical instruments, the company’s contributions to the world of performance cars should not be overlooked. From sedans to supercars, Yamaha engines have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry, showcasing a blend of power, precision, and innovation that continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the globe.
