SSC Tuatara
An American land-missile engineered to reclaim the world speed record.
- Power
- 1,750 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 2.5 s
- Top speed
- 295 mph
- Est. value
- $1.6m–$2.2m
About the SSC Tuatara
The SSC Tuatara is the successor to the Ultimate Aero, designed by Jason Castriota with a focus on extreme aerodynamic efficiency, boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.279. Its bespoke 5.9-litre flat-plane crank V8, developed with Nelson Racing Engines, produces a staggering 1,750 hp on E85 fuel. The car gained notoriety following a disputed 316 mph speed claim in 2020, though it later verified a 282.9 mph two-way average and a 295 mph one-way run. Built in Washington State, it features a carbon-fibre monocoque and a CIMA robotised manual gearbox capable of sub-100ms shifts.
SSC Tuatara specs
The SSC Tuatara produces 1,750 bhp (1,305 kW) and 1,735 Nm (1,280 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 295 mph (475 km/h).
| Make | SSC |
|---|---|
| Model | Tuatara |
| Trim | 5.9 V8 |
| Years | 2020–present |
| Type | Hypercar |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 100 built |
| Original price | About $1,600,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,998 cc (6.0 litres) |
| Induction | Twin-turbocharged |
| Power | 1,750 bhp (1,305 kW) at 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 1,735 Nm (1,280 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 8,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 2.5 s |
| Top speed | 295 mph (475 km/h) |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,247 kg (2,749 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 1403 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an SSC Tuatara worth?
A typical SSC Tuatara is estimated to be worth $1,600,000 – $2,200,000 (about £1,190,000 – £1,640,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,600,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
SSC Tuatara rarity in CarSpot
The SSC Tuatara is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
SSC Tuatara fun facts
- The Tuatara's engine produces 1,350 hp on standard 91 octane pump gas, but jumps to 1,750 hp when running on E85 ethanol.
- It is named after a New Zealand reptile known for having the fastest molecular evolution of any living animal.
- The car's active rear wing acts as an airbrake, adjusting its pitch to provide stability and stopping power at extreme velocities.
