The RUF Dakara is one of the rarest and most fascinating luxury performance SUVs you may not have encountered. Built by RUF Automobile GmbH, this high-performance SUV takes the Porsche Cayenne and transforms it into something that blurs the lines between a high-riding off-road machine and a sports car, complete with 911-inspired styling. With its unique looks and staggering performance figures, the Dakara is a hidden gem in the collector market, largely overshadowed by flashier models but still offering exceptional rarity and performance.
The Evolution of the Super-SUV Market
In today’s market, the concept of the super-SUV has become commonplace. Brands like Aston Martin, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce have joined Porsche in offering high-performance luxury SUVs that combine off-road capability with incredible speed. Porsche’s Cayenne, for instance, has been one of the pioneers of this segment, and it continues to be a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for both performance and practicality.
However, the RUF Dakara took the first-generation Porsche Cayenne, specifically the 957 Cayenne Turbo S, and transformed it into something far more exclusive, sporty, and performance-oriented. RUF’s ambition was to deliver a version of the Cayenne that not only performed at an elite level but also brought the distinctive styling of the Porsche 911 to the SUV world.
Summary Table
Feature |
Information |
|---|---|
Model Name |
RUF Dakara |
Manufacturer |
RUF Automobile GmbH |
Base Price (New) |
€230,000 (~$330,000) |
Engine |
4.5L V8 Twin-Turbo |
Horsepower |
591 hp |
Torque |
659 lb-ft |
0-60 mph |
4.8 seconds |
Top Speed |
180 mph |
Production Year |
2009 |
Exclusivity |
Fewer than 12 units built |
Current Price |
€90,000 (~$100,000) |
Official Site |
A Ground-Up Transformation by RUF
Built at RUF’s headquarters in Pfaffenhausen, Bavaria, the Dakara was more than just a tuner modification it was a full, ground-up transformation of the Porsche Cayenne, making it a completely unique model. Unlike most tuning companies, RUF doesn’t just modify existing cars; it creates fully bespoke vehicles that carry their own Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The Dakara was designed with a select group of Porsche enthusiasts in mind, particularly those who desired the utility of a Cayenne but with the unmistakable performance and styling of a 911.
RUF’s approach to the Dakara was bold. The front of the SUV was completely redesigned with headlights borrowed from the 997-generation 911. These round headlights completely changed the face of the Cayenne, giving it a much sportier, more aggressive look that some believed was a vast improvement over the more utilitarian design of the standard Cayenne.
Key Design Features and Styling
The Dakara’s appearance was one of the most striking aspects of the vehicle. Along with the 911-style headlights, the Dakara featured a full body kit that included wide, flared wheel arches, a sculpted rear diffuser, and a set of 22-inch five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in performance tires. The body kit also lowered the SUV’s stance, adding to its aggressive presence. The aerodynamic components gave the Dakara a more athletic appearance, while maintaining the SUV’s rugged stance.
When it came to the exterior colors, RUF offered vibrant options such as blue, black, and silver, and for customers seeking even more individuality, there were various custom finishes available. The body kit was designed to fit all Cayenne models, though the version seen in the Dakara was particularly tailored to the 957 facelifted Cayenne.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the Dakara retained the 957 Cayenne Turbo S’s twin-turbocharged 4.5-liter V8, but RUF made some key performance enhancements. The engine was upgraded with a new ECU remapping, upgraded turbochargers, and optimized engine management, which increased the output to 591 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque an increase of 50 horsepower over the standard Cayenne Turbo S.
The RUF Dakara could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. Even by today’s standards, these figures are impressive for an SUV, making it faster than many contemporary sports cars of the time. Power was sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, and the SUV was equipped with an electronically lowered suspension system, optional carbon-ceramic brakes, and a stiffened chassis to handle its increased performance capabilities.
Inside the RUF Dakara: A Bespoke Experience
Inside, the RUF Dakara was just as unique as its exterior. RUF worked with Swiss development partner Platune to craft a completely redesigned interior. It featured sport seats inspired by the 911, a new dashboard layout, and bespoke leather options. The interior also included luxurious touches like LED mood lighting, which created a “starry sky” effect, adding a sense of exclusivity to the cabin. High-tech features included TV reception, internet access, and a CD/DVD changer that could be controlled by a built-in notebook or even an iPhone supplied with the car.
The overall interior ambiance was driver-focused, with no attempt to create a gaudy or overly flashy aesthetic. It was the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and technology.
Rarity and Exclusivity
One of the key selling points of the RUF Dakara was its rarity. It was only offered in a single year, with only a handful of units ever built. While the exact production numbers remain a mystery, it is believed that fewer than a dozen units were ever produced. When new, the Dakara carried a hefty price tag, with a base cost of over €230,000 (~$330,000), more than double the price of a standard Cayenne Turbo S.
Today, despite its relatively low production numbers, the RUF Dakara has not yet reached the level of collector hype seen with models like the Lamborghini LM002 or special edition Mercedes G-Wagens. However, its rarity, performance, and distinct styling make it a valuable asset in the collector world, with prices around €90,000 (~$100,000) reported for certain examples.
Challenges and Maintenance Considerations
If you’re interested in purchasing a RUF Dakara today, be prepared for some challenges. First, the majority of these vehicles remain in Europe, and importing one to the United States could require navigating complex regulations. However, a handful of units have made their way to the U.S., where they remain rare collectibles.
Maintenance could also be an issue, as sourcing certain body or interior parts might be difficult. However, RUF’s reputation for building reliable, durable performance vehicles means the drivetrain of the Dakara should remain robust over time.
Conclusion: An Exclusive Collectible
The RUF Dakara represents a fascinating moment in the history of performance SUVs. Built before the modern high-performance luxury SUV boom, it’s a rare, exclusive, and powerful vehicle that still remains relatively under the radar in terms of collector demand. With its 911-inspired looks, performance upgrades, and luxurious, bespoke interior, the Dakara is a car that stands out among both Porsche enthusiasts and luxury SUV collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How many RUF Dakaras were produced?
A. Fewer than a dozen units were produced, making it an extremely rare vehicle.
Q. What makes the Dakara different from a standard Porsche Cayenne?
A. The Dakara features 911-inspired styling, enhanced performance upgrades, a custom interior, and unique design features like the 911-style headlights and aggressive body kit.
Q. Can the RUF Dakara be imported to the United States?
A. Yes, though importing requires navigating DOT and EPA regulations. A few units have made it to the U.S.
Q. What’s the current market value of the RUF Dakara?
A. Prices for the Dakara today hover around €90,000 (~$100,000), though it is still considered undervalued for such a rare and exclusive model.
Q. Are RUF’s modifications reliable?
A. Yes, RUF is known for its high-quality, reliable modifications, which enhance the performance and durability of the vehicle.
