Ruf is famous for its hardcore Porsche-based performance cars, and now it has launched an all-new version of its CTR 3 supercar that breaks from Porsche tradition. This time, Ruf has mounted the engine in the centre of the car, Cayman-style, rather than at the back like a 911.
As well as changing the engine's position, Ruf has tuned the twin-turbo 3.8-litre motor to produce a staggering 750bhp. This gives the new CTR 3 a top speed of 236mph, depending on the gearing an individual customer chooses. The car also sees off 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and covers 0-125mph in 9.6 seconds.
By placing the engine in the middle, Ruf has been able to make the new CTR 3 more aerodynamic to improve acceleration and top speed. A steel monocoque forms the passenger compartment with Ruf's own roll cage built in, while the engine is mounted to the body in its own space frame cradle.
A six-speed sequential manual gearbox sits behind the engine and has a limited slip differential to cope with the 708lb.ft of torque. Motorsport-inspired suspension supports the CTR 3 on 19-inch front alloys and 20-inch rears, while braking is taken care of by 380mm brake discs at each corner.
Inside, Ruf lets the customer decide how opulent they want their car to be, so there's a choice of near race car bare trim right up to a full leather and Alcantara finish. Standard on all models is a 260mph-rated speedo.
Ruf has not announced prices for the new CTR 3, but expect it to come in around the £250,000 mark.
Alisdair Suttie - 26 Jul 2011
