1998 Ruf CTR2 Sport Coupe

This RUF CTR 2 has been in the care of its original owner since it was purchased new in 1998. Based on the 993 generation, the CTR2 was introduced in late 1993 and introduced a sophisticated and aerodynamic shape with a rear suspension designed to reduce lift-off oversteer. Initially, the CTR2 was tuned to develop 520 horsepower; later iterations would produce even more - upwards of 580 horsepower. For the first time in a RUF, four-wheel drive was optional, and a RUF-modified six-speed gearbox was standard. Additional upgrades to the original Porsche design included a set of five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped with low-profile performance times, Kevlar body panels, special front and rear bumpers, and fenders with integrated heat extractors to aid in cooling the uprated brakes. At the back was a two-level rear wing, with each level having air intakes - one to cool the airbook and the other for the intercoolers. The interior housed a roll-cage, a speedometer with triple digits, and Ultrasolft leather seats.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2024

In 1987, a RUF CTR - known as the 'Yellowbird' captured worldwide praise and admiration when it became the fastest car in the world with a top speed of 211 miles per hour. Thrust onto the world stage, it immediately became the car of dreams.

Rather than rest on its laurels, RUF followed up the iconic 'Yellowbird' with the CTR 2, unveiled in 1995, and the first RUF built with fully aerodynamically friendly bodywork. Styling elements included wind-shaped mirrors, NACA ducts, and the removal of rain gutters. It had a restyled roof line that reduced wind noise at elevated speeds, RUF-designed sport mirrors on the A-pillars, and a dual-purpose rear wing. Inlets located in the leading-edge capture and channel air to two side-mounted intercoolers.

When the current owner went looking for the ultimate sports car in November 1997, Alois Ruf offered him Yellowbird number one. It was an intriguing offer, but ultimately, the latest CTR 2 was selected. Initially, a deal was struck where Alois would overhaul the Yellow CTR 2 press car. When the modifications and unique specifications exceeded the agreed-upon price, Alois suggested a new car built to curated specifications. Delivery was set for 1998.

The specifications selected included the 'Sport' 580 horsepower engine, lightweight carbon-kevlar body panels, optional 4WD system, advanced carbon brakes, oval exhaust tip, NOKIA sound system, and shorter gear ratios within the bespoke RUF six-speed transmission. An integrated roll cage (IRC) was also specified.

A test drive resulted in shorter ratios that accommodated quicker acceleration over top speed.

The exact number of CTR 2 is not known (outside of Pfaffenhausen), with estimates suggesting fewer than 30 for both 'Comfort' and 'Sport' models, with only about 16 'Comforts' produced.

This CTR 2 Sport Coupe remained in Germany under the care of Ruf until the end of 2000. The car was shown in the RUF class at the 2024 Amelia Island Concours and then brought to Monterey, CA that year where it was offered for sale by Broad Arrow Auctions.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2024