Few vehicles in the sprawling metropolis of Los Santos elicit the same instant reaction as the Grotti Cheetah Classic. This isn’t just another supercar vying for attention on the digital streets; it’s a time machine, a rolling tribute to the flamboyant excesses of the nineteen eighties. With its sharp lines, unmistakable silhouette, and a sound that harks back to an era of high-octane thrills, the Cheetah Classic isn’t merely a vehicle; it’s a statement. But beyond the nostalgia, how does this retro beast hold up in the modern world of GTA Online? That’s exactly what we’re going to delve into: exploring the Cheetah Classic’s design, performance, customization options, and ultimately, whether it justifies its price tag in the competitive landscape of Los Santos. It’s time to see if this icon is more than just a pretty face.
Design and Aesthetics: A Blast from the Past
To truly appreciate the Grotti Cheetah Classic, you need to understand its roots. The designers at Rockstar Games clearly drew heavy inspiration from some of the most iconic supercars of the eighties, most notably the Ferrari Testarossa. 
The resemblance is undeniable, from the low-slung profile and the signature side strakes running along the doors, to the overall wedge shape that defined the era. While the Testarossa is the primary influence, some might also see hints of other legends like the Lamborghini Countach in certain design elements.
The key to the Cheetah Classic’s appeal lies in its meticulous recreation of these iconic features. The unmistakable wedge shape dominates the overall design. Note the crisp, sharp lines that define the car’s silhouette. Then there are the side strakes – those instantly recognizable vents that run along the doors, providing a distinctive visual flair. And of course, no true eighties tribute would be complete without pop-up headlights. These are not just lights; they’re a wink to the past, a mechanical ballet that adds a touch of theatricality to the driving experience. The rear of the car is just as carefully considered. The taillights, the subtle spoiler, and the overall muscular stance contribute to a cohesive and undeniably stylish design.
Rockstar Games deserves credit for accurately capturing the spirit of the eighties supercar aesthetic. They haven’t simply slapped a few retro cues onto a modern chassis. They’ve crafted a vehicle that feels genuinely authentic, a loving homage to an era of bold designs and uncompromising performance. This is more than just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history, reimagined for the digital age. For players who grew up idolizing these classic supercars, or who simply appreciate well-crafted retro designs, the Cheetah Classic offers a powerful dose of nostalgia. It’s a chance to own a piece of their automotive dreams, albeit in a virtual world.
Performance and Handling: Taming the Beast
The Cheetah Classic isn’t just about looks; it needs to perform. While precise in-game metrics can vary slightly depending on updates, the Cheetah Classic generally offers solid performance within the supercar category. It boasts a respectable top speed and acceleration, allowing it to hold its own in high-speed chases and races. However, it’s important to manage expectations. It might not be the *absolute* fastest car in GTA Online, but it offers a balanced package of speed and handling.
Driving the Cheetah Classic is a unique experience. It has a raw, unfiltered feel that you don’t always find in modern supercars. It’s not as forgiving as some of the newer models; you need to be deliberate with your inputs and pay attention to the road. This isn’t a car you can simply point and shoot. It demands respect, rewarding skilled drivers who can master its quirks. The handling is responsive, but it can be a bit twitchy at times, especially at higher speeds. This adds to the challenge, but also to the sense of satisfaction when you nail a perfect drift or execute a clean overtake.
Let’s look at the pros and cons in more detail. The Cheetah Classic’s strengths lie in its acceleration and top speed. It can launch off the line quickly and maintain a respectable pace on long stretches of highway. It also excels in handling tight corners, making it fun for weaving through city streets or navigating winding mountain roads. However, it does have weaknesses. The braking can be a bit lacking, requiring you to anticipate turns and brake early. The traction can also be an issue, especially in wet conditions. It’s not the most stable car under heavy acceleration or during sudden changes in direction.
So, is the Cheetah Classic a viable choice for racing? It depends on the type of race. In straight-line speed contests, it might struggle to keep up with the absolute top contenders. However, in races that require agility and handling, the Cheetah Classic can be a serious threat. Its ability to navigate tight corners and maintain speed through winding sections makes it a formidable opponent in certain track layouts. The car is more suited to races with frequent turns and technical sections than open highway.
Customization Options: Making It Your Own
One of the most appealing aspects of GTA Online is the ability to personalize your vehicles. The Grotti Cheetah Classic doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Los Santos Customs and Benny’s Original Motor Works offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to transform the Cheetah Classic into a truly unique creation. From subtle visual tweaks to substantial performance upgrades, the possibilities are endless.
Visually, the Cheetah Classic offers a plethora of choices. The paint jobs are particularly noteworthy, allowing you to recreate classic Ferrari colors or opt for something entirely new and original. The wheels are another key element, with a vast selection of styles and sizes to choose from. You can go for a period-correct look with classic rims, or opt for modern, aggressive designs. Spoilers, bumpers, and hoods are also customizable, allowing you to fine-tune the car’s appearance to your exact liking. Some players even opt for roll cages, adding a touch of aggression and hinting at the car’s racing potential.
But the customization doesn’t stop at the surface. Performance upgrades allow you to significantly enhance the Cheetah Classic’s capabilities. Engine upgrades boost horsepower, improving acceleration and top speed. Transmission upgrades offer faster gear changes, allowing you to maintain momentum. Suspension upgrades improve handling and stability, while brake upgrades provide much-needed stopping power. And of course, no upgrade list is complete without a turbocharger, adding a significant boost to performance.
The GTA Online community has embraced the Cheetah Classic, creating some truly stunning and unique builds. 
These examples demonstrate the versatility of the car and the creativity of the players. Some players have opted for faithful recreations of iconic Testarossa liveries, while others have pushed the boundaries with outlandish color schemes and aggressive modifications. Regardless of your personal style, the Cheetah Classic offers a canvas for self-expression. Fully upgrading and customizing the Cheetah Classic can be an expensive undertaking. From the base price of the car to the cost of the individual upgrades, you can easily spend a significant amount of in-game currency. However, for many players, the investment is worth it. It’s not just about having a fast car; it’s about creating something unique and personal, a reflection of your own style and personality.
Value and Alternatives: Is It Worth the Investment?
The Grotti Cheetah Classic comes with a price tag that places it firmly within the mid-range of supercars in GTA Online. So, is it worth the cost? The answer depends on your priorities. If you’re solely focused on maximizing performance and winning every race, there might be faster and more competitive options available. However, if you value style, nostalgia, and a unique driving experience, the Cheetah Classic offers a compelling proposition.
Before making a decision, it’s worth considering some alternatives. The Pegassi Toros offers similar performance and handling characteristics, but with a more modern aesthetic. The Overflod Autarch is another strong contender, boasting impressive speed and agility. Or maybe you’re better off with another Grotti, like the Turismo Classic.
The Cheetah Classic is best suited for players who appreciate its unique design and driving experience. It’s a car for collectors, for fans of eighties supercars, and for those who want to cruise the streets of Los Santos in style. It might not be the ultimate weapon for winning every race, but it’s a car that will turn heads and put a smile on your face.
Conclusion
The Grotti Cheetah Classic is more than just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a tribute to an era of bold designs and unapologetic excess. While it might not be the fastest or most competitive supercar in GTA Online, it offers a unique blend of style, nostalgia, and performance that makes it a compelling choice for many players. The Cheetah Classic stands out with its design, fun handling, and customization.
Ultimately, whether or not the Cheetah Classic is worth buying is a personal decision. But if you’re looking for a car that combines classic style with modern performance, and a driving experience that’s both challenging and rewarding, the Cheetah Classic is definitely worth considering.
Now, we want to hear from you! What are your experiences with the Grotti Cheetah Classic in GTA Online? Share your thoughts, your builds, and your favorite moments in the comments below! What car should we review next? Let us know!
