This Classic Porsche-Based Supercar Is Expected to Fetch Millions at Monterey

An 80s speed icon hits the auction block

In 1987, German auto manufacturer and Porsche tuner RUF quickly became the darling of Porsche fans worldwide when it released the CTR, a machine better known by its other name: Yellowbird.

Coined by Road & Track photographers by the way its bright yellow paintwork stood out in cloudy weather conditions, the Porsche 911 Carrera-based CTR made a heck of a first impression on the automotive world when it proved itself as a standout in the magazine’s July 1987 comparison shootout. Ruf’s CTR eclipsed the era’s best in the magazine’s “World’s Fastest Cars” test, as the Ferrari Testarossa, AMG Hammer, and even Porsche’s own 959 couldn’t touch the Yellowbird’s 211 mph top speed.

The CTR was no ordinary 911

All this was made possible by the many upgrades that the CTR had over a standard 911 Carrera at the time. Under the rear hood of the Yellowbird is the Carrera’s 3.2-liter air-cooled flat six bored out to 3.4 liters, fitted with twin turbochargers and a race-spec fuel injection system mated to a RUF-designed five-speed manual. Built with a reinforced chassis for ultimate track performance, RUF further promoted the CTR’s prowess and capabilities with a 1989 promotional VHS called Faszination Auf Dem Nürburgring, a 20-minute montage featuring works driver Stefan Roser exploring the CTR’s limits on the Green Hell.

But while only 29 CTRs were built for discerning customers, six customers took on RUF’s offer for a special ‘Lightweight’ trim for those who felt they wanted their stripped-out, hardcore machines to be a little more hardcore. Here, key body panels were made out of aluminium instead of steel, the chassis was stripped down, and it also had no center console, no roll cage, no power brakes, no sunroof, no radio, and lightweight Clubsport seats. 

Hitting the auction block during RM Sotheby’s Monterey event on August 16 is CTR number 9, which is also known by its nickname “Redbird.” This specific CTR was ordered directly through Alois Ruf, and is a German-market Lightweight example finished in a paint-to-sample Bordeaux Red and an interior finished in trim-to-sample black Nutria leather.

In addition to the cool paint job, the car also features a smattering of personalization features that make this Lightweight CTR very distinct, including race-inspired upgrades like RUF sports suspension, a custom telemetry gauge, 959-style door seals, and lightweight door panels. In addition, the CTR comes with many comfort and usability options like power windows, a heated windshield and rear window, and aluminum door sills. 

Additionally, this “Redbird” has further personalization features like Sabelt six-point harnesses, a dash-mounted kill switch inspired by the CTR prototype, a Pfaffenhausen hood badge, and chrome trim.

However, despite the extensive personalization options, RM Sotheby’s says that this CTR example has an interesting provenance. A previous owner’s research in correspondence with RUF confirmed that the car was completed in September 1989, but was never delivered and remained in the hands of RUF until 2005.

During this time, it was reportedly driven and kept by Ruf founder Alois Ruf as a personal vehicle. It was later sold and went through a series of respected collectors in Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the United States. While in Austria, it was returned to RUF for several drivability upgrades, including a revised G50 transaxle and an updated brake system with adjustable bias control.

RM Sotheby’s estimates that this special CTR could get between $4,500,000 and $5,000,000 USD. According to the auctioneers, it has fewer than 18,900 kilometers (~11,745 mi.) and is authenticated by a RUF certificate, build sheet, factory correspondence, German registration documents, manuals, and RUF invoices dating back to 2005.

Final thoughts

Whether you know about Ruf through video games like Gran Turismo, Wangan Midnight Maximum Tune, or through videos by Best Motoring, the CTR is an automotive icon like no other. It took the establishment by surprise, and to some enthusiasts, it still has the “if you know, you know” cache.

This, alongside other niche performance vehicles of this era, is part of my hypothetical “unlimited money” dream garage, and in this specific spec, it’s one that is sure to find a home with a very discerning collector.