Ruf: Building a Better Porsche
If you know about Ruf at all, it’s likely that you either encountered the brand in Gran Turismo and thought it was a bootleg Porsche or you saw Stefan Roser driving the original CTR Yellowbird within an inch of its life in “Faszination On The Nurburgring.” But Ruf is more than just a Porsche look-alike. It is a renowned German manufacturer that has been building exceptional sports cars for over 80 years.
Ruf was founded in 1939 by Alois Ruf Sr. in Pfaffenhausen, Germany. Initially, the company focused on repairs and modifications of Volkswagen Beetles. However, Alois Ruf Jr. took over the company in 1974 and shifted its focus to building high-performance sports cars based on Porsche platforms.
One of Ruf’s most iconic models is the CTR Yellowbird, which gained fame through a viral video showcasing its incredible performance on the Nurburgring. The CTR Yellowbird was powered by a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 469 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of 211 mph. This car became the benchmark for Ruf’s engineering prowess and established the brand as a serious player in the automotive industry.
Over the years, Ruf has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of performance. They have developed their own engines, transmissions, and aerodynamic packages, ensuring that every Ruf car is a unique and exhilarating driving experience. Ruf’s commitment to excellence is evident in their attention to detail and craftsmanship, making each car a work of art.
In recent years, Ruf has expanded its lineup to include models like the Ruf SCR and Ruf RGT. The Ruf SCR is a modern interpretation of the iconic Porsche 911 Safari rally car, featuring off-road capabilities and a powerful engine. The Ruf RGT, on the other hand, is a track-focused sports car designed for ultimate performance on the racetrack.
Despite their success, Ruf remains a relatively small-scale manufacturer, producing only a limited number of cars each year. This exclusivity adds to the allure of owning a Ruf, as each car is handcrafted and tailored to the customer’s specifications. It’s no wonder that Ruf cars are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
In addition to building their own cars, Ruf also offers a range of services for Porsche owners. They provide maintenance, repairs, and upgrades for Porsche vehicles, ensuring that owners can experience the Ruf touch even if they don’t own one of their cars. This dedication to customer service and support has earned Ruf a loyal following and a reputation for excellence.
As Ruf celebrates over 80 years in the automotive industry, they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in a sports car. Their commitment to innovation, performance, and craftsmanship sets them apart from other manufacturers. Whether you’re a fan of their iconic CTR Yellowbird or intrigued by their modern offerings, Ruf is a brand that deserves recognition.
In conclusion, Ruf is not just a bootleg Porsche. It is a legendary German manufacturer that has been building exceptional sports cars for over 80 years. From their iconic CTR Yellowbird to their modern models like the Ruf SCR and Ruf RGT, Ruf continues to innovate and push the boundaries of performance. With their dedication to craftsmanship and customer service, it’s no wonder that Ruf cars are highly sought after by enthusiasts worldwide. So, if you’re looking for a better Porsche, look no further than Ruf.
