Read the following figures out aloud: 2,750 pounds, a 710-horsepower engine, a carbon monocoque, and pushrod suspension. Those stats alone don’t suggest something with the silhouette of a vintage 911, do they? In the case of the RUF CTR Anniversary, an astounding amount of modern tech is utilized to modernize the experience of its hot-blooded forebear without diluting the driving experience like some modern supercars do.
Just about everything with this supercar in sheep’s clothing is bespoke. From the custom ZF seven-speed, to the integrated rollcage, there’s so much to appreciate in a car which, to many eyes, seems almost subdued—if you can ignore the yellow paint. That’s all part of the RUF charm, as is the way the company blends both old and new in what is arguably the most tech-heavy commemoration project in years.
It’s not only absurdly quick and focused, but it oozes dignified, restrained style. The houndstooth seats, the classic five-gauge layout, and the signature green dials are all facets a well-read Porschephile can appreciate. But rather than try to antiquate the car for antiquity’s sake, RUF incorporated subtle, modern touches within the classic theme. Best of all, it does this without looking futuristic or gadgety. For the detail-oriented and meticulous, there’s plenty to appreciate about the ostensibly bare-bones interior.
On the dash, the classic dials are supplemented by a set of LCD screens to relay more information to the driver.
As Lee points out, many modern supercars offer all the power and chassis dynamics anyone could wish for, but at the cost of a slightly diluted experience. In the case of the CTR Anniversary, the driver still plays a large role in managing the 710 horsepower, wide footprint, and seven-speed manual. It’s another nod of respect to the past and everything old supercars represent, even to the detriment of outright performance. Because so much could be changed—perhaps for the worse—with the carbon tub, pushrod suspension, and modern engine calibration.
Instead of growing dull or overly competent with all the tech present, it is still a lively, fierce, and emotive car. It doesn’t iron out every imperfection in the driver’s style, but it does encourage them to push with a supple suspension setup and a well-mapped motor’s manageable power delivery. It seems RUF have taken a philosophical approach to building their idea of the ideal 911, and that makes it a singular creation which only a boutique builder could make. The CTR Anniversary blends style, presence, grace, performance, and involvement like major marques struggle to these days, and for that reason, it might be one of the most desirable vehicles on the road today.