1987 Raltzenberger RT31 2-Door F3 Race Car
2022.0028.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 110 cu. in. (1.8L) Cast-iron block, SOHC VW I-line 4
Output: 220 HP @ 8,500 RPM
Transmission: MkV 5-speed
Wheelbase: 108 in.
Overall Length: 160 in.
Weight: 1,000 lbs.
Top Speed: 150 MPH
No. Produced: 42
Manufacturer: Ralt Cars
The name Ralt is directly linked to Ron Tauranac, race car driver and builder. Teamed up with his brother, Austin Lewis Tauranac, the pair named their cars RALT. However, it was a meeting with Australian Larry Perkins in 1974 that led Ron Tauranac to design Formula 3 cars and the formation of Raltzenberger Cars. The 1980s were the RALT decade with wins in ’83 and ’84.
Piloting RT31:719, driver Roland Ratzenberger won Round One of the Nürburgring EFDA Euroseries Formula 3 race and then finished second in Round Two. In addition to taking the overall win, he also clocked the fastest lap. In August and September, he had podium finishes at Donnington and at Spa-Francorchamps and an additional top 10 win. Sadly, on April 30, 1994, while driving in Formula One, Ratzenberger died in a crash at The San Marino Grand Prix at Imola.