Experience the Thrill of a Legend: The Ruf CTR \"Redbird\" – A Masterpiece of Automotive Engineering Heads to Monterey!
The Genesis of a Speed Icon: The Ruf CTR's Impact on Automotive History in the 1980s
In 1987, the German automotive manufacturer and Porsche specialist, Ruf, captivated enthusiasts globally with the introduction of the CTR, widely recognized by its evocative moniker, \"Yellowbird.\" This vehicle gained significant attention when Road & Track magazine's photographers noted its striking yellow finish against a muted sky. Based on the Porsche 911 Carrera, the CTR left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, notably excelling in the magazine's July 1987 \"World's Fastest Cars\" evaluation. The Ruf CTR outshone formidable rivals such as the Ferrari Testarossa, AMG Hammer, and even Porsche's own 959, achieving an impressive top speed of 211 mph.
Beyond the Standard 911: Unveiling the CTR's Advanced Engineering and Performance Enhancements
The extraordinary capabilities of the CTR were a direct result of its numerous enhancements over a conventional 911 Carrera of that period. Powering the Yellowbird was a 3.2-liter air-cooled flat-six engine from the Carrera, expertly bored out to 3.4 liters. This engine was augmented with twin turbochargers and a racing-specification fuel injection system, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox meticulously designed by Ruf. To ensure superior track performance, the vehicle featured a reinforced chassis. Ruf further showcased the CTR's formidable prowess in a 1989 promotional VHS film, \"Faszination Auf Dem Nürburgring,\" which featured test driver Stefan Roser masterfully pushing the CTR to its limits on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
The Exclusive Lightweight Variant: Rare Features and Distinctive Customization Options
Although only 29 CTRs were produced for a select clientele, six customers opted for the even more extreme 'Lightweight' iteration, seeking an even greater degree of raw, stripped-down performance. This version featured key body panels crafted from lightweight aluminum instead of steel, a further lightened chassis, and the omission of a center console, roll cage, power brakes, sunroof, and radio. It was also fitted with minimalist Clubsport seats, emphasizing its track-focused nature. Ruf’s commitment to customization meant each CTR could be uniquely tailored to its owner’s preferences, creating truly individualized masterpieces of automotive art.
A Unique Specimen: The \"Redbird\" Heads to Auction with a Storied Past
Among these exclusive models, CTR number 9, known as \"Redbird,\" is set to be auctioned at RM Sotheby's Monterey event on August 16. This particular CTR was a direct order from Alois Ruf himself, originating as a German-market Lightweight example. It boasts a custom paint-to-sample Bordeaux Red exterior complemented by a trim-to-sample black Nutria leather interior. Beyond its distinctive color scheme, the \"Redbird\" incorporates a range of unique features, including race-inspired upgrades like Ruf sports suspension, a specialized telemetry gauge, 959-style door seals, and lightweight door panels. It also offers select comfort amenities such as power windows, heated windshield and rear window, and aluminum door sills.
The Provenance of a Legend: Unveiling the \"Redbird's\" Unique Ownership Journey
The \"Redbird\" possesses a particularly intriguing history, further enhancing its appeal. Research conducted by a previous owner, confirmed through correspondence with Ruf, revealed that the car was completed in September 1989 but was never delivered to a customer. Instead, it remained with Ruf until 2005, reportedly serving as Alois Ruf’s personal vehicle during this period. Subsequently, it passed through the hands of several esteemed collectors in Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the United States. While in Austria, the vehicle was returned to Ruf for significant drivability enhancements, including an upgraded G50 transaxle and a revised brake system with adjustable bias control. With less than 18,900 kilometers (approximately 11,745 miles) on the odometer, this CTR comes with a Ruf certificate, build sheet, factory correspondence, German registration documents, manuals, and Ruf invoices dating back to 2005, all authenticating its remarkable journey.
The Enduring Allure: Why the Ruf CTR Remains a Coveted Classic
Whether discovered through popular video games like Gran Turismo or Wangan Midnight Maximum Tune, or observed in vintage Best Motoring videos, the Ruf CTR stands as an unparalleled automotive icon. It astounded the automotive establishment upon its debut, and for dedicated enthusiasts, it continues to hold a revered, exclusive status. This exceptional vehicle, with its distinctive specifications, would undoubtedly be a prized possession in any enthusiast's dream collection, representing a pinnacle of performance and rarity that will appeal to the most discerning collectors.