How Does a Cheetah Run So Fast?

July 13, 2009

Cheetahs are the fastest known land animals, with running speeds that can reach over 75 miles per hour.

Image: Cheetah pursuing a Thompson's gazelle in Tanzania
(Credit: Lee Berger)

They can accelerate from a standing 0 miles per hour position to 60 miles per hour in just three seconds. I believe only two cars in the world beat that acceleration rate. They're named at the end of this post, along with the fasted flying animal.

For now, please watch how scientists have developed a clever way to study cheetah running. Hint: chicken meat is involved.

The fastest known bird is the peregrine falcon, which can dive bomb prey at around 200 miles per hour.

If you like your cars fast, the SSC Ultimate Aero can go from 0-60 in 2.7 seconds, and is the world's speediest car at 257 mph. Base price: $654,400.

The Bugatti Veyron hits 253 mph and goes from 0-60 in just 2.5 seconds. Base price: $1,700,000.