The SEMA Show took place at the end of October 2018, take a look at our video below of the custom Cheetah that we featured at the event!
Ruth Engineering is owned by Craig Ruth and his partner, Joe Fumic.
It was incorporated in March 2007.
The Cheetah project morphed out of Craig's other business, Ruth Restorations, Inc which is a continuation of the family business that started in 1958 by his father, Robert Ruth. Ruth Restorations, Inc was officially chartered in January of 2005.
Is this Cheetah a kit car?
The Cheetah Evolution is not a kit car. Our Body-in-White package is fully assembled using new components and a few GM items that are modified to our design. The Cheetah Evolution does not show up at your garage on a skid with countless boxes and a 200 page assembly manual. Each Evolution is hand crafted to your specifications.
Since the Cheetah Evolution is not a kit car the cost can vary greatly. The cost of our Body-in-White package is $45,000. From that starting point owners can invest as much time and money into the project as they would like. To get an idea of some of the options available please refer to our Sample Build page.
If I don't want to purchase the Body-in-White package can I purchase individual components (such as the chassis or the body) separately?
Yes, please refer to the Sample Build page for more information and to request a custom quote.
How long does it take to get one?
The Cheetah Evolution Body-in-White can be ready to ship in 4 months from the receipt of a deposit. A frame can be completed in 4 weeks. Lead time on a body is 10 weeks.
Is this Cheetah street legal?
The Cheetah Evolution, once completed with turn signals, horn, high and low beam DOT SAE headlights, wiper system and stop lights is ready for state inspection and should meet the requirements to be titled. The Cheetah Evolution uses a DOT laminated windshield as well. Completed Cheetah Evolutions can be put through the Ohio State inspection with the purchase of that package.
How are the Cheetahs titled?
Cheetah Evolutions completed and inspected in the state of Ohio are titled as self-assembled and use the 17 digit VIN that Ruth Engineering & Racing, Inc. assigns. The title bears the year of inspection and all self-assembled vehicles in the state of Ohio are emission exempt.
What engine can I use in a Cheetah?
A Cheetah Evolution can be built to accept any engine. However, any engine besides the Chevrolet small block, big block or LS series engine will incur an upcharge for engine mount design and location.
What transmission is used in a Cheetah?
The Cheetah Evolution is designed to use the Tremec T-56 Magnum six speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission cannot be used without heavy design changes made to the frame and monocoque tunnel.
Can I use air conditioning in a Cheetah?
Yes, the Cheetah Evolution is designed to have an AC system installed. The side window package is required to run the AC so as not to damage the system per the manufacturer.