SSC Ultimate Aero: Difference between revisions
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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*[http://www. |
*[http://www.shelbysupercars.com/Official SSC Aero specifications] |
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*[http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z9816/SSC_Aero%20SC/8T/default.aspx ConceptCarz.com article] |
*[http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z9816/SSC_Aero%20SC/8T/default.aspx ConceptCarz.com article] |
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*[http://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/2005/11/23/fastest-american-cars-cx_dl_1128feat_ls.html Forbes Magazine article] |
*[http://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/2005/11/23/fastest-american-cars-cx_dl_1128feat_ls.html Forbes Magazine article] |
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Revision as of 14:37, 12 August 2007
The American-built SSC Aero is a supercar built by Shelby Super Cars (SSC) in order to rival the new Bugatti Veyron with speeds of over 250 mph and a 0-60 mph time of just 2.78 seconds (for the Ultimate Aero TT version). The company and vehicle are the brainchilds of Jerod Shelby, who spent over seven years designing the Aero.
The SSC Aero first appeared in 2004 under the name 'Aero SC/8T'; the Ultimate Aero is a limited production version of the Aero, offering even higher performance. From various sources, only 25 Aeros will ever be produced, but the sources conflict on actual models. The SSC Ultimate Aero will be the fastest American car on the road. The base Aero model is priced from $239,000, while the Ultimate Aero would cost well over $650,500.
Specifications (2006)
The Aero's styling includes the use of scissor doors similar to the ones found in Lamborghini cars. It uses carbon fiber and titanium extensively throughout the car, keeping the weight down to 1233 kg (for the standard Aero). For the Ultimate Aero, weight is further reduced to 1179 kg by marking the navigation system, 10-speaker audio/CD/DVD system, video/DVD screen, and back-up camera as optional equipment; and removing air-conditioning and any trunk space altogether.
The engine in the base Aero model is a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine rated at 787 bhp @ 6600 rpm and 998 Nm (736 ft·lbf) torque @ 5800 rpm, while the Ultimate Aero has increased engine displacement and increased supercharger boost, resulting in an astounding 1183 bhp @ 6950 rpm and 1113 Nm (821 ft·lbf) torque @ 6200 rpm (Running on 104 octane gasoline.)
Wind-tunnel testing indicates that the Ultimate Aero could possibly reach a top speed of 437 km/h (273mph) given appropriate transmission gear ratios. The base Aero, however, should only reach around 386 km/h (240 mph).
Despite its astounding performance, the Aero's fuel mileage is rated at an excellent (at least for a supercar) 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Specifications (2007)
Ultimate Aero is now named Ultimate Aero TT.
The engine in the base Aero model is same as last year, but Ultimate Aero's engine now 387.2 cu.in., rated at 1180 bhp @ 6950 rpm and 961 lb./ft. torque @ 6150 rpm, supercharger is replaced by twin turbocharger with cab adjustable boost pressure. The car is designed to use 92 octane.
The 6-speed transmission is readjusted to increase car's top speed to 273.75mph (437 km/h) @ 7200 rpm, although actual run to such extremes have yet to be made.
Wheels on base model is 18-inch front and 19-inch rear, while Ultimate Aero TT has wheels an inch bigger on both sides.
Coefficient of drag are 0.371 and 0.357 for base and ultimate models respectively .
2007 models are heavier, with base model at 2850 lbs, and Ultimate version at 2750 lbs. Unlike previous year, both models have navigation system, 10-speaker audio/CD/DVD system, video/DVD screen, back-up camera, air-conditioning and trunk space as standard equipment.
The first production 2007 Ultimate Aero TT car was sold on eBay for US $431,100. Later cars are expected to cost US $585,000[1]. Only 24 Ultimate Aero TT are to be produced between 2006-2007.
The Ultimate Aero TT will make its international debut on the International Show Circuit starting in November 2006, culminating with the world record top-speed competition held in Wolfsburg, Germany in May 2007.
Specifications (2008)
In this year, SSC only made the Ultimate Aero TT model. Engine is rated at 1183 bhp @ 6950 rpm and 1094 lb./ft. torque @ 6150 rpm. It can run on 91 octane.
The 6-speed transmission is readjusted to increase car's theoretical top speed to 286.272mph (458km/h) @ 7200 rpm.
Speed Attempt
SSC tested the Ultimate Aero TT' Top Speed capabilities on March 22nd, 2007. The original test was scheduled for March 21st, 2007 but was called off because of snow. SSC closed down a 12-mile stretch of U.S. Route 93 in Nevada for the event. Their goal was to attempt to replace the Bugatti Veyron as the fastest production car ever produced (currently 253.2mph). Simulation and testing at NASA's Virginia facility has shown that the car should be capable of about 273mph.[2] The March 22nd attempt failed to break the record because of sub-optimal temperature conditions. Test driver Rick Doria reported "wheel-spin" at speeds above 190mph.[3] Despite the weather, the car still managed to reach 230mph. SSC reports that they will attempt to break the record again in a couple of weeks (weather permitting).