1996 Ruf CTR2
Spark - S0724 (resin)
Published 07/13/18
The Ruf CTR2 (Group C, Turbo Ruf, 2nd generation) was based on the 993 Porsche 911 Turbo. Ruf built the model from 1992 to 1995, producing only 29 cars. Like all other models from Ruf, the CTR2 was derived from an unmarked Porsche chassis, called BIW (“body in white”). This BIW than received a lightweight Kevlar body with lightweight glass and engine all built in-house at Ruf’s factory in Pfaffenhausen, Germany. The model also received an integrated bi-functional rear wing for downforce and for air induction to two intercoolers, one on each side. The engine used for the CTR2 was an air-cooled Porsche flat-6, displacing 3600 cm³ and twin-turbocharged. This engine was based on the unit used by Porsche in their 962C cars, used for Group C racing. With Ruf’s improvements it delivered 520 hp initially, but later on it was further revised to produce 580 hp.
Ruf also offered the option of standard rear-wheel drive or an optional all-wheel-drive. Though they were street-legal and comfortable cars, going fast was the main goal of the CTR2. Performance-orientated, all cars left Pfaffenhausen with enlarged brakes, an integrated roll cage and a Ruf manufactured coil-over suspension system. The CTR2 was a true street rocket. It was capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of over 350 km/h. In 1995 it was the fastest production sports car in production, and only lost the title in 1998 to the McLaren F1.
After I did some research for my Ruf CTR3 I became very impressed with the brand. Ruf Automobile GmbH is a true car manufacturer, and their models are nothing but extraordinary. Yes, they do look like 911s, and they´re not as groundbreaking as the cars from Koenigsegg. But Ruf´s cars deliver, and are solid works of engineering. So of course that peaked my me interest.
In 1:43rd scale this CTR2 is very charming, with Spark certainly doing a fantastic job on it. And an interesting fact about this particular model. I bought it through evilBay from a US seller, who shipped it to me via USPS. To my absolute despair USPS first sent it to Poland (!) and then to Israel (!!) and only then here to Brazil 😲. Fortunately it arrived safe and sound, but come on…