RUF CTR
The analog icon that humbled the Ferrari F40 and Porsche 959.
- Power
- 469 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.7 s
- Top speed
- 213 mph
- Est. value
- $4.3m–$6.1m
About the RUF CTR
The RUF CTR, famously nicknamed 'Yellowbird' by Road & Track, was the fastest production car in the world upon its 1987 debut. Based on the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2, RUF bored the engine to 3.4 litres and added twin KKK turbochargers, resulting in a conservative 469 hp rating that often dynoed higher. It featured a bespoke 5-speed gearbox, integrated roll cage, and lightweight aluminium panels to achieve a kerb weight of just 1,150 kg. Its legendary status was cemented by the 'Faszination auf dem Nürburgring' film, showcasing its tail-happy, high-speed nature on the limit.
RUF CTR specs
The RUF CTR produces 469 bhp (350 kW) and 553 Nm (408 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and has a top speed of 213 mph (342 km/h).
| Make | RUF |
|---|---|
| Model | CTR |
| Trim | Yellowbird |
| Years | 1987–1996 |
| Type | Supercar |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 29 built |
| Original price | About $223,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,367 cc (3.4 litres) |
| Induction | Twin-turbocharged |
| Power | 469 bhp (350 kW) at 5,950 rpm |
| Torque | 553 Nm (408 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 3.7 s |
| Top speed | 213 mph (342 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,150 kg (2,535 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 408 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a RUF CTR worth?
A typical RUF CTR is estimated to be worth $4,300,000 – $6,060,000 (about £3,200,000 – £4,520,000).
Its original price when new was about $223,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
RUF CTR rarity in CarSpot
The RUF CTR is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
RUF CTR fun facts
- The 'Yellowbird' nickname was coined by Road & Track editors because the car's bright yellow paint stood out against the grey, overcast skies of the Ehra-Lessien test track.
- RUF built only 29 CTRs from scratch using bare Porsche chassis; approximately 20-30 additional cars were later converted from customer-supplied 911s.
- To improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise at 200+ mph, RUF famously shaved off the 911's factory rain gutters.
