2004 SSC Ultimate Aero Dimensions, Size & Specs

The SSC Ultimate Aero's approximate width of about 2.06 meters (81.1 inches) is considerably wider than the average passenger car, which usually ranges between 1.75 to 1.85 meters (69 to 73 inches). This extra width contributes significantly to the car's handling prowess, providing a wider track that improves cornering stability and grip, especially important for a supercar with the power and speed capabilities of the Ultimate Aero. The substantial width, combined with its specialized tire sizes of 335 mm at the rear and 235 mm at the front, enhances contact with the road surface, allowing for better traction during rapid acceleration, high-speed cornering, and heavy braking. While this width offers substantial performance benefits, it may also make the Ultimate Aero more challenging to navigate through narrow city streets and tight parking spaces compared to standard-sized vehicles.

The SSC Ultimate Aero from 2007 to 2008 is equipped with a staggered tire setup specifically designed for high-performance driving. It features 13J x 20 rims fitted with 335/30 R20 tires on the rear and 9.5J x 19 rims with 235/35 R19 tires on the front. This combination gives the car an incredibly wide and stable footprint, especially at the rear, where the 335 mm wide tires maximize traction during acceleration and enhance stability at high speeds. The 20-inch rear wheels with a wide 13-inch rim width allow for greater tire contact patch, while the slightly smaller 19-inch front wheels maintain precision steering and cornering control. Overall, these tire and rim sizes are optimized to handle the immense power output and aerodynamic downforce generated by the Ultimate Aero, contributing to its performance both on straightaways and around curves.

The SSC Ultimate Aero (2007-2008) has a curb weight reported approximately at 1,220 kg (2,690 lbs). This relatively low weight for a hypercar of its power class is achieved through extensive use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum composites. The lightweight construction combined with a high-output engine enables the Ultimate Aero to achieve extraordinary acceleration figures, boasting one of the fastest 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) times of its era. The reduced mass also enhances agility and braking efficiency, allowing for quicker responses and better handling dynamics. Maintaining a low curb weight is essential in translating the powertrain’s capability into usable performance on both road and track.

Considering the SSC Ultimate Aero's approximate width of 2.06 meters (81.1 inches) and length around 4.3 meters (169 inches), it generally can fit into a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garages are about 2.44 to 2.74 meters (8 to 9 feet) wide and approximately 6 meters (20 feet) deep, so it allows for the Ultimate Aero’s placement. However, the car’s purposeful broad width and very low height mean there is less lateral clearance, so careful maneuvering is required, especially when opening doors or working around the vehicle inside the garage. Also, the very low ground clearance means any uneven entrance or sloped driveway surfaces must be approached cautiously to avoid scraping. While the Ultimate Aero can physically fit into a standard garage, owners often prefer larger or custom garages due to the car's exotic dimensions and the care required.

The Ultimate Aero generation from 2007-2008 is an evolution of the earlier 2004 Ultimate Aero. Dimensionally, the later model features subtle adjustments primarily aimed at improving aerodynamics, cooling, and stability. The 2007-2008 version is typically similar in length and height but might have a slightly wider track and revised bodywork to accommodate larger rear tires (335/30 R20 compared to earlier versions' possibly narrower setups). While exact side-by-side dimension figures for length and height remain close, the newer generation pushes the envelope in width and tire fitment to optimize handling and grip. These dimensional enhancements contribute to the improved speed records and driving dynamics associated with the 2007-2008 Ultimate Aero. The redesign also adheres to evolving safety and aerodynamic standards, making the later generation a more refined and aggressive iteration of its predecessor.

When compared to other hypercars from the mid-2000s such as the Bugatti Veyron, Koenigsegg CCX, and Pagani Zonda, the SSC Ultimate Aero holds a competitive stance dimensionally. Its width at approximately 2.06 meters (81.1 inches) is comparable to or slightly wider than many competitors, providing an aggressive stance and enhanced stability. In length, with an estimated 4.3 meters (169 inches), it is moderately sized, somewhat shorter than the Veyron but close to the Koenigsegg CCX. Height is notably low at around 1.1 meters (43 inches), typical for hypercars targeting aerodynamic efficiency. The Ultimate Aero’s proportions underscore its focus on raw performance, with wide tires and a broad track for maximum road-holding, a trait shared among its era’s elite in hypercar design. Overall, its size allows it to balance between supercar agility and hypercar presence.

The tires on the SSC Ultimate Aero play a critical role in defining its driving dynamics. The large 335/30 R20 rear tires provide an immense contact patch with the road, which is essential for transmitting the car’s substantial power to the asphalt without excessive wheel spin. This wide rear tire ensures excellent traction during acceleration and stability at very high speeds, contributing to the Ultimate Aero's record-setting performance capabilities. Conversely, the slightly narrower 235/35 R19 front tires help maintain precise steering input and responsiveness, aiding handling during cornering maneuvers. The staggered tire setup balances traction and agility — wide rear tires for grip and power delivery, narrower front tires for nimble control. This configuration is a hallmark of supercar and hypercar design and is integral to the Ultimate Aero’s superior road manners.

While the SSC Ultimate Aero's dimensions and engineering prioritize performance, its size and supercar characteristics mean it is not ideally suited for everyday use. The low ride height (approximately 1.1 meters or 43 inches) requires careful navigation of speed bumps, driveways, and uneven road surfaces to avoid damage. The wide body, at 2.06 meters (81.1 inches), makes parking in tight spaces and driving in narrow city streets more challenging than regular cars. Additionally, limited cargo space and the minimalistic interior geared toward reducing weight and improving performance make day-to-day practicality limited. The car’s fuel consumption and maintenance costs also tend to be high, typical of ultra-high-performance vehicles. Nonetheless, for passionate enthusiasts, the Ultimate Aero can be a thrilling weekend or track car, but it is not the most convenient choice for regular commuting.

The SSC Ultimate Aero from 2007-2008 holds an important place in automotive history mostly due to its achievements as one of the fastest production cars of its time. It broke speed records, famously surpassing the Bugatti Veyron for the title of the world's fastest production car during its era, with top speeds approaching 412 km/h (256 mph). These accomplishments were remarkable given the relatively small production volume and boutique nature of SSC North America as a manufacturer. The car showcases innovative use of lightweight materials, aerodynamic design, and impressive powertrain engineering. Its aggressive styling and cutting-edge carbon fiber construction set new standards for hypercar design. The Ultimate Aero pushed performance boundaries and demonstrated that smaller manufacturers could rival global giants, inspiring innovation in supercar development worldwide.