Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The low-frequency counterweight to all the screaming V10s and V12s here. The gullwing SLS uses a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 (the 6.3 badge nods to AMG's first V8, not the real capacity), with dry-sump lubrication so it can sit low in the chassis. Its 563 horsepower made it the most powerful naturally aspirated production engine of its time. What people remember is the start-up: a bass-heavy growl that sounds startlingly loud on a quiet street, then a hard rush to a 7,200 rpm red line. If your idea of a great engine note is depth rather than pitch, start here.