Skip to main content

Runge RS is a ’50s-Inspired, Handcrafted Masterpiece for Modern-Day Racers

“The world went and got itself in a big damn hurry.” – Brooks Hatlen, Shawshank Redemption

We’re not sure Brooks would’ve appreciated the cars of today. Most have gone soft, choosing to value comfort and convenience over the driving experience. Even today’s sports cars boast frilly accessories like automatic parking assist, heated seats, and Bluetooth stereos with satellite radio. Thankfully, one bootstrapped Midwest builder is reviving the dying art of the pure vintage racer, one beautifully handcrafted roadster at a time.

Runge Cars
Runge Cars

The body of the Runge RS is a modern masterpiece. From the side, the design appears to flow like mercury recalling the beautiful, curvy bodies of ‘50s-era Ferrari, Maserati, and Jaguar roadsters. Runge admits pulling heavily from the Porsche 550 Spyder and Porsche 718 RSK specifically.

Beneath the stunning polished aluminum, the RS is all business. Hearkening back to the racing days of yore, the steel tube-frame chassis supports a mid-mounted, air-cooled, flat-four engine pushing 159 horsepower. Mated to a four-speed “longbox” transaxle means it can more than hold its own on the freeway. The four-wheel disc brakes mean it stops plenty quick too.

Stepping into the two-seat cockpit feels like time-traveling a full six decades. The classic racing bucket seats, copious brown leather trim, and wood-rimmed steering wheel remind the driver this is no ordinary auto. The interior dispenses with the unnecessary “conveniences” standard in today’s modern sports cars. You won’t find cupholders, touchscreen navigation, or even a radio for that matter. Behind the wheel of a Runge RS, those become superfluous. This is a car that’s all about the unadulterated exhilaration and fun of the driving experience. The only notable accessories are a few vintage mechanical components and a single-man tonneau cover. Leave your latte at home.

Runge Cars RS
Runge Cars

Runge Cars was founded by Christopher Runge, a former professional snowboarder who abandoned the slopes for his one real passion: classic racecars. From his Minnesota garage, he handcrafts bespoke vintage-inspired, street-legal racers. Every car is built to the buyer’s specifications guaranteeing no two are alike. It’s no surprise that when the uber-wealthy — including car enthusiasts with Bond-villain levels of money and a stable of brand-name supercars — are looking for something truly unique, they look to RÜNGE.

Of his iconic Model T, Henry Ford once said, “Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black.” Likewise, the Runge RS is only available in polished aluminum. RÜNGE Cars is taking just three orders per year for the Runge RS. Pricing is listed as “serious inquiries only.” We expect a price tag well into the six figures but, frankly, if you have to ask …

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
BMW’s latest project? An EV yacht dubbed THE ICON
Make waves with the new EV yacht from BMW
THE ICON, BMW's new EV Yacht

Step into the world of THE ICON, where luxury and sustainability dance together on the shimmering waves of the sea. On May 17, BMW’s latest project, THE ICON, was unveiled at the charming port town of Cannes. Amid all the excitement of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, this mesmerizing vessel steals the show.

THE ICON is an extraordinary watercraft that defies expectations. It's not just your ordinary vessel — it's a symbol of cutting-edge innovation. Powered by batteries, this EV yacht is perfect for emission-free travel. Prepare to be swept away!

Read more
McLaren reveals its future hybrid supercars will have a V8 engine
A new generation of V8 hybrid engines by McLaren
A McLaren Artura supercar on the road

Almost 12 years ago, McLaren partnered with Ricardo to develop the twin-turbocharged V8 engine of the McLaren 12. It began a business partnership between McLaren and Ricardo that would continue over the past decade.

More succinctly, McLaren and Ricardo collaborated to develop the engines used in popular models, such as the McLaren GT, McLaren 570S Spider, and McLaren Senna. In fact, more than 30,000 McLaren supercars produced over the past decade come with V8 and V6 engines designed by Ricardo and McLaren. However, with the world shifting toward electric vehicles, it remains to be seen how McLaren will adapt. 

Read more
Your childhood dream car is up for auction: The 1988 Lamborghini Countach
Icon of an era: the 1988 Lamborghini Countach awaits its new owner
1988 lamborghini countach auction

Lamborghini Countach is one of the most iconic supercars ever made. If you were a kid in the 80s, you probably had its poster pinned on your bedroom wall while dreaming about how you would wish to own it one day when you grow up. It was the epitome symbol of success in the 80s, and even today, it’s a beacon of nostalgia that takes you back to the Walkman days.

Besides its beauty, the Lamborghini Countach's allure is that it’s extremely rare to find — only 52 Lamborghini Countach were originally sold in the United States. Lamborghini is reviving it with an electrified model, but if you grew up in the 80s, that may not be enough to tickle your fancy.

Read more