Overview
Jerod Shelby founded SSC North America in 1998 with a singular ambition: build the fastest production car in the world using American engineering. The Tuatara is the culmination of that mission. The name comes from the tuatara lizard — the fastest-spinning animal on Earth relative to its body size — a fitting metaphor for a car designed to maximize power-to-weight ratio beyond anything its competitors attempt.
The 5.9L twin-turbocharged flat-plane crank V8 was designed entirely by SSC. This is not a modified Ford, GM, or Chevrolet engine — it is an original powerplant engineered from blank paper to deliver 1,750 hp on E85 fuel (1,350 hp on pump premium). The block, heads, rotating assembly, and forced induction system are all SSC proprietary designs, manufactured to tolerances that rival Formula 1 components.
In October 2020, a Tuatara achieved an average two-way speed of 282.9 mph on a closed Nevada highway — the highest verified average speed ever achieved by a production car on a public road. SSC has subsequently continued development, targeting the 300 mph barrier. The aerodynamics were validated in CFD simulation and wind tunnel testing to maintain stability at speeds where most cars would become uncontrollable projectiles.
At $1,900,000, the Tuatara is priced below the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ ($3.9M) and Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut ($3.0M) while delivering comparable or superior performance. For collectors who want the ultimate American performance machine rather than a Swedish or French alternative, no other option exists.
Specs & Trims
Trims & Pricing
Prices are MSRP before destination, taxes and fees. Verify at manufacturer website.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.9L SSC Twin-Turbocharged Flat-Plane V8 |
| Horsepower | 1,750 hp (E85) / 1,350 hp (91 octane) |
| Torque | 1,280 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | Sub-2.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 282.9 mph verified (record) |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual |
| Body | Carbon fiber monocoque + skin |
| Weight | 2,750 lbs |
| Built | Richland, Washington — SSC facility |
| Production | Ultra-limited |
Reliability
Reliability
Consult Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. Check all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls before purchasing any used vehicle.
| Component | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Excellent | SSC-designed; each unit individually dyno-verified |
| Carbon Body | Excellent | Zero visible joins; inspect annually for micro-stress |
| AMT Gearbox | Good | Ricciardi Racing unit; service per manufacturer schedule |
| Turbochargers | Good | Large-format twin turbos; service annually |
| Overall | Excellent | Limited production means intense individual QC |
Recalls & VIN Check
📋 VIN Decoder & Recall Check
→ Check on NHTSA.govCosts & Comparison
Ownership Costs
Tuatara ownership requires direct SSC factory involvement for all major service. Insurance $50,000–$100,000+ annually. Parts are proprietary — only SSC can supply them. Budget $25,000–$50,000 per year for proper ownership of a 282 mph car.
vs. The Competition
Cross-shop these direct alternatives before finalizing your purchase decision.
| Competitor | Base MSRP | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ | $4,300,000 | The Tuatara ($1.9M) competes on verified top speed with the Bugatti CSN300+ ($5M+) at a fraction of the cost. |
| Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut | $3,000,000 | Jesko Absolut targets a similar top-speed mission with a hybrid turbocharged V8, at a significantly higher price than the Tuatara. |
| Hennessey Venom F5 | $2,100,000 | Hennessey Venom F5 is the domestic competitor at slightly higher pricing. |
Buying Guide
Buying Guide & Who Should Buy
Research current incentives and compare against cross-shop alternatives before purchasing. Verify current pricing, availability, and specifications at the manufacturer's website. Test drive multiple trims to determine the right configuration for your specific needs.
Heritage & History
The Ssc Tuatara represents an important model in American automotive history with a loyal ownership community. Consult manufacturer history and automotive press archives for comprehensive heritage information.
Pros & Cons
Frequently Asked Questions
- SSC North America sscnorthamerica.com
- NHTSA nhtsa.gov
- Motor Trend verified speed record
- Road & Track