Best V8 cars available in NZ

Back in the day, there were more plentiful choices when it came to V8 cars. But a few things have happened over the past ten years. For one, people tend to buy SUVs rather than cars now, and so there are simply fewer options of the latter on the market. There has been the demise of Holden and the Ford Falcon too, taking that big, rear drive sedan with a V8 powerplant off the menu. European manufacturers meanwhile have followed a ‘downsizing’ strategy; where cars were once powered by a V8, they now have a smaller, turbocharged V6 or have gone down a hybrid path. 

So now, the best V8 cars available in NZ are reserved for the sporting models, and all are six figures plus. 

The Mustang Dark Horse is Ford’s top-tier offering in the current lineup, limited to just 150 units in New Zealand, making it a rare and sought-after model. While not a limited edition in the U.S., its exclusivity in NZ has made it a hot commodity, with examples now appearing on the used market at premium prices.

The DH builds upon the standard GT with enhanced performance and handling. It features an upgraded fourth-generation Coyote 5.0 V8 producing 373kW (500hp), thanks to improved induction, forged internals and an active-valve exhaust. Torque remains at 567Nm. It includes MagneRide adaptive dampers, larger sway bars and a Torsen differential for sharper handling. The Tremec six-speed manual from the GT350 is exclusive to the DH in NZ, as are Recaro seats and a more aggressive aero package.

Despite its performance focus, the DH remains practical for daily use. Its ride is firm but manageable and the interior features a dual-screen digital layout, logical controls and decent storage. Rear seats are fit for the kids only however the boot is surprisingly spacious. Drive modes adjust steering, damping, and power delivery, with Sport proving best for spirited road driving.

Track-capable yet refined, the DH blends strong grip, precise brakes and balanced handling with a lively V8 soundtrack. While not perfect, the 10-speed auto can be inconsistent, the DH impresses overall. It delivers thrilling performance and sharp dynamics, proving itself a worthy evolution of the Mustang. Though now sold out, expect future S650 special editions to build on this successful formula.

The seventh-generation BMW M5 (G90) marks a major evolution in the iconic sports sedan's history, introducing plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology for the first time. Combining a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 producing 430kW and 750Nm with a 140kW electric motor, the M5 delivers a staggering total output of 535kW and 1000Nm. Power is sent through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, allowing a 0–100km/h time of 3.5 seconds.

With its electrification, the M5 is now heavier, tipping the scales at 2435kg, over 400kg more than its predecessor. This weight gain affects acceleration and leads to longer braking distances. However, fuel efficiency is significantly improved, with average consumption around 8L/100km and up to 70km of pure electric driving. Regeneration contributes to modest battery top-ups, although engine charging isn’t supported.

Multiple hybrid modes balance performance and efficiency, but EV-only driving lacks punch for overtakes. Still, the M5 proves impressively refined, quiet in electric mode and civilised for daily use. The car’s dynamic prowess remains, with sharp handling, impressive grip and a composed ride, despite its mass. Features include adaptive damping, laser headlights, M sport seats, carbon-fibre trim, and a luxurious, tech-rich cabin.

Visually, the M5 stays bold, especially in matte finishes and with signature M elements. At over $250,000, it’s costly, but its blend of performance, innovation and hybrid efficiency keeps the M5 firmly in super-sedan territory—evolving without losing its soul.

The 2024 Corvette Z06 is a high-performance, track-focused evolution of the C8 Stingray, distinguished by its exotic-sounding 5.5L LT6 naturally aspirated V8. Inspired by Ferrari’s 458 engine, it features a flat-plane crankshaft, double overhead cams and revs to 8600rpm. Producing 475kW and 595Nm, it delivers thrilling power in a dramatic, high-revving package.

The Z06 retains the Stingray's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission but upgrades its internals for more demanding use. It also receives enhanced cooling, firmer suspension, wider tires (275mm front, 345mm rear), and beefier Brembo brakes, with optional carbon ceramics. Its body is widened by 91mm for better aero and grip, while MagneRide adaptive dampers ensure it remains road-compliant in softer modes.

Optional carbon fibre components significantly increase the price from a base $346k to over $412k, though it still undercuts rivals like the Porsche 911 GT3. On-road manners are impressive despite stiffer suspension; the Z06 handles daily traffic and tight spaces with civility, aided by driver aids like front cameras and a lifter system.

Interior quality is high with extended leather, heated/ventilated power seats, and dual storage areas. Drive modes are customizable via the “Z” button, letting drivers fine-tune engine, suspension, and traction settings. The real star, though, is the LT6 engine, whose ferocious acceleration and thrilling soundtrack dominate the experience, making the Z06 an exciting, capable, and relatively good-value super sports car.

The fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed marks a bold leap into electrification, combining a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a 140kW electric motor for a total of 575kW and 1000Nm. This plug-in hybrid makes it Bentley’s most powerful and quickest production model yet, with a 0–100km/h time of just 3.06 seconds. It’s a refined, dual-natured grand tourer, capable of serene electric driving (up to 80km range and 140km/h on EV power) and explosive performance when desired. Despite weighing over 2.4 tonnes, its handling is agile thanks to a rear-biased weight distribution, active roll control and rear-wheel steering.

The ride remains quintessentially Bentley (sumptuous and composed) even with massive 22-inch wheels and in dynamic Sport mode. Advanced suspension tech, including dual-chamber air suspension and a 48V roll system, ensures comfort over any surface. The styling is updated with slimline headlights, a smaller grille, and sleeker taillights, while the cabin is luxurious and modern, with options like carbon fibre trim and endless personalisation choices.