Description

Chassis No. W09BD0364WPR06010

RUF Automobile GmbH is a renowned German car manufacturer synonymous with precision engineering and relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. Founded in 1939 by Alois Ruf Sr. in Pfaffenhausen, Germany, RUF initially focused on repairs and servicing of vehicles before transitioning into manufacturing their own automobiles. With a commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with timeless craftsmanship, RUF has carved a niche in the automotive world, revered by enthusiasts and collectors alike for their bespoke creations that embody the perfect harmony of performance, luxury, and innovation.

Following Alois Sr's passing in 1974, Alois Ruf Jr. took the reins and immediately indulged in his passion project: modified 911s. Until this point, the company was an underground secret within the Porsche community, given their focus on service and restoration. However, under Alois Jr's leadership, a series of modified Porsche's began to emerge from Pfaffenhausen. At first it was only well known within the Porsche world, but over time a cult like following began. All hell broke loose in 1987 with a wild and grainy 20-odd minute epic of one man in white socks and a t-shirt casually sawing away at the wheel of a RUF CTR “Yellowbird” at frightening speeds around a then little-known racetrack. The racetrack was the Nürburgring, and the man was Stefan Roser.

Those 20 minutes of Faszination would launch an icon and cement RUF's status not only as an independent car maker, but one with passionate following. At the time the CTR, more commonly known as the “Yellowbird,” was the fastest car in the world with a top speed of 211 miles per hour. The reception to that film not only put RUF on the world stage to collectors and enthusiasts alike but ensured it wasn't simply the poster car of everyone's dreams, it was the car of dreams. How does one follow such an icon? Like any good engineer mad genius, Alois Jr, decided his next model, the CTR 2, would have to be “more” in every aspect.

Unveiled in 1995, the CTR 2 was the first RUF built with a focus on fully aerodynamically friendly bodywork. Earlier models highlighted some of the now iconic features of shaved rain gutters, wind shaped mirrors, and NACA ducts. The CTR 2, however, was designed from the ground up with aerodynamics in mind. Rain gutters were removed, with a new, attractive roof line providing reduced wind noise at elevated speeds. RUF designed sport mirrors hug the A-pillar. Most notably the dual-purpose rear wing set it apart. Combining both an aerodynamic function of downforce for stability, inlets in the leading-edge also capture and channel air to two side mounted intercoolers.

As word spread of the CTR 2, our consigner was traveling throughout Europe on the hunt for a new car in November 1997. A fan of performance and speed in all forms from helicopters, boats, and cars, he happened to know of both Gemballa and RUF and wanted to see their offerings up close. Unlike today's highly orchestrated salesmanship with VIP lists, pre-sold allocations, and a pay-to-play system the consigner simply knocked on the door and walked into both. His first visit was with Gemballa and they discussed a project on a modified Porsche 911 Turbo. However after visiting Pfaffenhausen he decided RUF was more appealing due to their manufacturer status with their own VIN sequence beginning with “W09.” Those three all-important characters were the deciding factor then just as they are in today's market.

Initially Alois offered the consigner the famous Yellowbird number one. Consideration was given to the idea but in the end his desire for speed and performance won out, culminating in the latest CTR 2. Initially a deal was made where Alois would overhaul the Yellow CTR 2 press car. Documents from December 1997 confirm the car would be repainted, have a new interior installed, retrofitted AC, an engine overhaul and modified to 580 horsepower, new brakes, 4WD added, and the installation of new shorter gears among other changes. All the modifications and car were agreed at the cost of about 365,000 DM and delivered approximately three months later in early 1998.

However, upon returning home, several weeks later Alois would send a fax saying the finished product with all modifications would be too extensive for the price agreed. Instead, the consigner could order a new car and specify it - however they liked - for a slightly larger sum! Delivery was still promised for 1998 in time for his planned travels back to Germany to collect the car. The new order would include many of the same options as before. The higher output “Sport” 580 horsepower engine was selected for 65,000 DM, lightweight carbon-kevlar body panels for 25,000 DM, the optional 4WD system at 18,000 DM, along with advanced carbon brakes. Being a RUF, however, anything is possible and an oval exhaust tip, NOKIA sound system, and shorter gear ratios within the bespoke RUF six-speed transmission were selected. Naturally being a RUF, their elegant integrated roll cage (IRC) was also specified.

Throughout production there are numerous faxes and letters on file discussing progress and updates. One such example is the choice of the bespoke shorter gear ratios. Prior to collection an engineer friend visited RUF and insisted on a drive with Alois to check the ratios were as desired. Documents on file show handwritten calculations that chart the speeds and rpms achieved concluding the ratios were not as requested. The consigner insisted on shorter ratios prioritizing acceleration over top speed and a prompt request to change the ratios prior to delivery! Top speed, however, is not an issue with pictures on file showing the consigner behind the wheel going at least 325 kph on the German Autobahn.

Upon delivery, the consigner once again insisted on thorough systems check. A handwritten checklist documents everything as it should be and included with the car including gear ratio confirmation, owner's manual, an oil change, and recalibration of the valves remains with the car. Furthermore, pictures of delivery with Alois and Estonia Ruf remain showing the consigner standing proudly with his new CTR 2. Although the exact number is unknown outside of Pfaffenhausen, it is said that the production totaled less than 30 for both “Comfort” and “Sport” models with only about 16 “Comforts” produced. The car would remain in Germany under the care of Ruf until the end of 2000 when the consigner shipped the car to their home. Prior to leaving Germany as a further testament to the consigner's fastidious nature, Ruf was instructed to refinish the nose to remove any stone chips incurred while driving on the autobahn!

This highly collectable air-cooled masterpiece may be a true one-of-a-kind example. Benefiting from single ownership included with the sale is an extensive history file of communication and order forms between the consigner and RUF. It has lived a very sheltered and secluded life, its existence unknown to most collectors until now. It's recent showing in the RUF class at the 2024 Amelia Island Concours was the first time Estonia Ruf has seen the car since it left Pfaffenhausen!

RUF has always remained a small independent company of which very few get to experience. Retaining documents including its order forms, options list, invoices, photographs, and communication offers the next caretaker a taste of RUF's famous personal ordering process and, of course, one of the most important RUFs to ever come for sale.