The German automotive specialist Ruf has revealed an innovative flat-eight engine at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a notable development in the realm of high-performance automobiles. This new powerplant, internally designated as "Erprober" or "Tester" and officially known as the B8, represents a bold departure from the company's long-standing tradition of utilizing flat-six engines, a design often associated with Porsche, a marque with which Ruf shares historical ties. The B8 engine, a twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter boxer configuration, boasts impressive figures, producing more than 1000 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque, placing it firmly in the ultra-high-performance category.
This cutting-edge engine is presently integrated into a modified Ruf CTR3 prototype, a mid-engined sports car known for its aggressive styling and performance. To accommodate the new eight-cylinder engine, the CTR3's bodywork has been extended by 3.9 inches. Power is channeled through a six-speed manual transmission, underscoring Ruf's commitment to engaging driving experiences. The prototype car features a distinctive livery, drawing inspiration from the iconic 'Blossom Yellow' of the 1987 CTR Yellowbird, and incorporates graphics that visually represent its eight-cylinder architecture. While the B8 is still in its developmental stages, serving as a testbed for future technologies, it is anticipated to soon transition into production in a forthcoming Ruf model.
Enthusiasts attending the Goodwood Festival of Speed will have the exclusive opportunity to witness the B8-equipped CTR3 prototype in action. The vehicle, piloted by acclaimed rally and stunt driver Tanner Foust, is scheduled to tackle the Goodwood Hillclimb twice daily from Friday, July 10, to Sunday, July 12, as part of the "Supercar Run." For those unable to attend in person, the event's YouTube livestream will provide a chance to experience the inaugural roar of this remarkable engine, highlighting Ruf's ongoing dedication to automotive innovation and performance excellence. This unveiling not only showcases Ruf's engineering prowess but also reinforces the dynamic and forward-thinking spirit of the automotive industry.
