Ruf Rodeo competes with off-road version of 911
Ruf is the latest company to launch an off-road capable sports car modeled after the iconic Porsche 911 rally car that competed in the East African Safari Rally of the 1970s.
But unlike Porsche tuning companies like Singer, which only modify existing 911s, Germany-based Ruf is recognized as a manufacturer that builds cars from scratch, using custom parts, including a carbon fiber monocoque chassis developed in-house.
Ruf's off-road sports car, unveiled Friday at the 2024 Monterey Car Week, is called the Rodeo and is a production version of the 2020 concept car of the same name. In addition to carbon tubs, the Rodeo boasts a variety of off-road goodies, including a custom-built all-wheel drive system and an interior inspired by American cowboy culture (particularly Ralph Lauren's ranch). The idea came from an experience that Ruf's marketing director, Estonia Ruf, enjoyed while living in Oklahoma.
The Rodeo's body, like the center tub, is made of carbon fiber, reducing the vehicle's body weight to just 2,756 pounds. Additionally, a steel roll cage is connected to the carbon tub at four points to strengthen the body. [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...]
