Over the past few years, tickets to the Goodwood Festival of Speed have become some of the most sought-after passes in the automotive world. As the event continues to evolve into a global showcase for cutting-edge vehicles, more manufacturers are using it as a platform to unveil their latest engineering achievements. This year, RUF chose the festival for the world premiere of its brand-new boxer-8 engine prototype — a powerplant that, according to the company, produces more than 1000 horsepower. Here’s everything currently known about it.

While RUF frequently works with Porsche’s vehicles as the foundation for its creations, it’s important to clarify that the two are not directly affiliated. Porsche itself has a rich history of experimenting with flat-8 engines, particularly in motorsport during the 1960s. The company’s race cars such as the 907, 908, 910, and 910/8 were all powered by flat-8 units, and even Porsche’s short-lived Formula 1 venture was motivated by this engine layout. Despite its racing pedigree, Porsche has never used a flat-8 engine in any of its production road cars.

RUF, on the other hand, has previously developed 8-cylinder engines for models like the RGT-8 and the Dakara, both of which featured a conventional flat-plane V8 configuration. The brand’s latest development, internally codenamed “Erprober” (translated as “Tester”), represents a completely in-house effort aimed at creating something entirely new for the company’s legacy.

“There are moments in a company's history that define its future,” said Alois Ruf. “For RUF, the Boxer 8 is one of those defining milestones. A boxer-eight has never been part of our story, or anyone else’s in this unique configuration, so we decided it was time to write a new chapter in automotive history. We’re eager to let the engine speak for itself at Goodwood.”

The newly developed flat-8 engine displaces 4.8 litres, and, with opposing pistons sharing the same crankshaft, earns its “boxer” classification. Supported by a pair of turbochargers, this engine generates an extraordinary output exceeding 1000 hp and 739 lb-ft of torque. Although RUF has not yet revealed the finer technical details, the engine’s engineering promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

Rather than simply displaying the engine on a stand, RUF decided to showcase it in action by installing it into a modified CTR3. The demonstration car will be driven by Tanner Foust, who will pilot the flat-8-powered machine up the Goodwood hill climb twice daily from Friday, July 10, through Sunday, July 12. Spectators with access can also view the car up close in the Supercar Paddock for the duration of the event. For enthusiasts, this is one performance that is absolutely worth witnessing in motion.