DEALER TALK
We chat to Richard Sekula at RUF UK.
Based in Tunbridge Wells, RUF Automobile UK keeps Richard Sekula very busy, not only as a consequence of media enquiries and new RUF orders, but also through the acquisition and sales of pre-owned cars bearing the famous Pfaffenhausen crest. We popped along to find out the latest...
How was business for RUF during 2020?
It’s important to remember RUF Automobile Gmbh is a manufacturer. While it’s true to say the company is concerned with low-volume production of bespoke vehicles, it still faces the same pressures as major manufacturers where problems with the supply chain is concerned. When you look at the specification of a new RUF car, it’s easy to see why assembly is so labour intensive and why each build is a protracted affair. Nevertheless, missing one or two small items as a consequence of outside forces can hugely hamper completion of assembly.
If a third party’s factory is closed or there’s a logistical problem to deal with, this could present an enormous problem. For any manufacturer (RUF, Porsche or otherwise), it’s a big concern.
Have lead times for the delivery of completed RUF cars had to be extended?
Thankfully not. In fact, the biggest problem we’re facing is continued high demand for the new CTR, a 700bhp anniversary model paying tribute to the original CTR ‘Yellowbird’ and limited to just fifty units. In contrast, there isn’t a cap on production for the new CTR’S sister car, the full-carbon SCR (unveiled at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and powered by a 503bhp naturally aspirated four-litre flat-six). With this in mind, give me a call if you want to place an order!
When are you anticipating completed cars to roll out of Pfaffenhausen?
Uk-designated new CTRS are expected to be with us in the early part of 2021. Customers who have laid down a deposit for a new SCR should expect to see the first cars completed by the close of the year. Before long, all customers will be invited to RUF’S German headquarters to enjoy test drives in the prototype of each model. As you can imagine, it’s a very exciting time for us.
RUF Automobile UK is the first point of contact for sales of pre-owned RUF cars in the United Kingdom. How has this market faired in recent times?
In terms of sales activity, 2020 was no different to any other year. We’re lucky thanks to there being perennial interest in air-cooled Porsches and related RUF products. Obviously, COVID presents challenges to a business like ours, but we’ve seen the customer base adapt to a new way of buying cars, demonstrated by the surge in popularity of online specialist automotive auctions. I think, on the whole, buyers have really warmed to the convenience of being able to remotely purchase a car from a trusted seller. In short, the pre-owned market has remained healthy. The difficulty is being able to fulfil demand, something most suppliers of used Porsche and related cars are experiencing.
You’re finding stock difficult to come by?
In addition to pre-owned RUF cars, we source and supply top-notch examples of air-cooled Porsches, but the number of really good quality vehicles coming to market has been less than fluid in recent months. With uncertainty surrounding what’s happening in the world right now, many owners are holding off parting with their Porsches. I can understand why, but as a dealer being asked to locate cars for enthusiastic clients, the limited availability of really good air-cooled 911s with interesting provenance and exacting specification is very frustrating.
What makes an air-cooled Porsche so special?
It’s a combination of factors. I’m the owner of a Ruf-kitted Carrera 3.2 and I’m amazed at how small it is compared to the latest-generation 911. To my mind, the Matchbox-like proportions of an old Porsche are one of its biggest qualities. I love how you can chuck these cars around and how 50mph can feel like 70mph thanks to an ‘analogue’ driving experience free of frippery, electronic devices and driver aids. Air-cooled Porsches have a lot of soul.
What is your advice to anyone worried about the availability of old Porsches in an age welcoming automotive electrification?
Get out there and enjoy these cars while you can. It’s difficult to say what the automotive landscape will look like in ten or twenty years. Cars with traditional engines might not be economically viable for the majority of enthusiasts, which is why now is a good time to buy the Porsche you’ve always promised yourself.
What new developments are taking place at RUF Automobile UK at the moment?
We’ve been taking a lot of calls from interested parties keen to find out more about the RUF RCT Evo we took delivery of for a UK customer at the tail of end of the summer. It’s a fantastic car in shimmering purple paint. That gives me an idea: it’d make a great 911 & Porsche World feature!