Ruffian and CTEK steal the show at SEMA
CTEK continued our tradition of show-stopping vehicle unveils at the SEMA Show. In addition to unveiling its next-generation new products, CTEK welcomed Ruffian Cars to reveal its Ruffian Plymouth GT-1, an extraordinary fusion of vintage design and modern racing technology.
Conceived in the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship, the Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 exemplifies what happens when inspiration, engineering excellence and a respect for heritage converge.
“CTEK has become known for its incredible vehicle unveils at SEMA – each one showcasing creativity, craftsmanship and innovation at the highest level,” said Steve Hayes, Head of CTEK North America.
“The Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 continues that legacy, combining the artistry of a vintage hot rod with the performance of a modern race car. It's a perfect example of the passion and precision that define both Ruffian Cars and CTEK.”
A vision realised
The Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 is a hot rod like no other. Its carbon fibre fenders sit gracefully atop an original all-steel 1930s Plymouth body, preserving every mark of history – from scratches and dents to patches of patina – now sealed under deep clear coat. The result is an authentic time capsule reimagined for the modern era.
Within its timeless lines lies a race-bred heart: a GT-1 chassis, once the most victorious car in the Crane Cams V8 StockCar Series, now reborn as the structural foundation of this special build.
“The Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 is what happens when you listen to the quiet whispers of the universe," said Chris Ashton of Ruffian Cars. “We had all these orphaned components – pieces from projects past – that somehow came together to form something truly one of a kind: a Viper-powered, road racing, street-legal 1935 Plymouth hot rod coupe.”
To learn more about the build from Chris, click here.
Power and precision
Under the hood, the Viper Gen IV V10, meticulously rebuilt by Prefix Race Engines, has been stroked to 9.0 litres and fortified with forged internals to deliver 803 horsepower and 741 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a Tick Performance 6-speed TR6060 transmission and a Ford 9-inch floater rear axle, the Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 commands both brute strength and finesse – nearly matching the original GT-1 race car's power, and exceeding its torque by several hundred pound-feet.
Engineering excellence
Every detail in the Ruffian Plymouth GT-1 serves a purpose. The radiator and cooling system have been re-engineered to reside in the trunk, cleverly disguised as the Plymouth's original spare tire. A Sweet dual power rack and pinion system ensures agile handling, while Penske adjustable coilovers and AP Racing brakes deliver precision performance worthy of its competition pedigree.
Key technical specifications:
- Engine: 800hp 9.0L Gen IV Viper V10 by Prefix
- Chassis: Riggins Engineering GT-1 tube chassis (2002)
- Transmission: 6-speed TR6060 by Tick Performance
- Suspension: Double wishbone front / three-link rear
- Brakes: AP Racing & StopTech with Porterfield pads
- Body: Original all-steel 1935 Plymouth, carbon fenders
- Weight: 2,900 lbs
Powered by CTEK
As with all Ruffian builds, reliable power management is paramount. CTEK's advanced charging technology ensures the Ruffian Plymouth GT-1's high-performance electrical systems remain optimised for both street and track use. From maintenance charging to show readiness, CTEK products provide the confidence builders and drivers depend on.