Almost 10 years ago, RUF began to fill niches in the market with the then-new water-cooled Porsche models. The first RUF RGT was based on the Porsche 996. It used the 3.6 liter engine from the GT3 as the base. The engine delivered 385 hp. The car itself ran on 18-inch RUF alloy wheels and the narrow body was optimized aerodynamically. The vehicle was fitted with a discrete but functional integrated roll cage. 1
In 2004 the story continued, this time based on the Porsche 997. The car was easily recognized by the screwed-on carbon-composite fender extensions on both the front and rear. The powerplant was a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter unit delivering 445 hp. A dry-sump oil system ensured sufficient lubrication even under tough racing conditions. A roll-cage was fitted as standard ensuring a high level of passive safety. The RGT was supplied with a chassis optimized for the race track and ran on 19-inch alloy wheels.
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Now the time is right for RUF to announce the next generation of RGT, the RGT-8. This spectacular prototype vehicle is powered by a completely new RUF designed V-8 engine with a "Flatcrank” crankshaft. Four valves together with multipoint fuel injection ensure optimal mixture conditions while the dry-sump system supplies the necessary lubrication. The lightweight engine has a very compact design, has a capacity of 4.5 liters, and delivers 542 hp at 8,500rpm and a maximum torque of 369 lbs.-ft. at 5,400 rpm.
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At all stages of the design process, keeping the engine compact and low in weight were the priority. The result is a total engine weight of less than 440 pounds. A six-speed gearbox with shortened gear-shift movement transfers the power to the rear axle. To ensure the best adhesion characteristics, the RGT-8 is supplied with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires running on 19-inch RUF forged alloy wheels utilizing a single central retaining nut. The powertrain is rounded off with sturdy ceramic brakes as standard for optimal braking.
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The current Porsche 911 forms the basis for the RGT-8 chassis, which is then further optimized with bodywork components from RUF. As always, an integrated roll-cage is supplied delivering increased chassis stability and passive safety. In addition, it is pleased to offer a Frere package which enhances the standard vehicle with special front fenders, nose, and dashboard components. The styling was inspired by the 550 Coupe with which Paul Frere, the Belgian race driver, won the best of class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1953. Production of the RUF RGT-8 is planned for 2011.
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