Porsche RUF THR

Alois Ruf wasn’t satisfied with winning one high-speed contest. Entering the 1990s, RUF continued engineering upgrades into the new 964 and 993-generation 911 Turbo by offering his customers a range of improvements to make their vehicle even more exhilarating to drive. In addition to upgraded turbochargers, intercoolers, and fuel injectors, RUF offered customers greater displacement and also enhanced suspension tuning for improved handling and stability, larger brakes for increased stopping power, and aerodynamic enhancements for better downforce and stability to maintain control at the high speeds his cars were capable of reaching.

Before it was upgraded to RUF THR specification, this particular car was ordered as a RoW 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo delivered to The Netherlands in Grand Prix White over a Flamenco Red leather interior. A highly optioned example from the factory, it appears that this 911 Turbo could have leapt from the pages of a late-1990s Porsche Exclusive catalog. Notable options include the 430 horsepower X50 upgrade, rare X79 rear fender air inlets, and a full leather interior with optional X56 Carbon Instrument Cluster/Panel, and X57 Carbon Door Panel inserts. These features were carefully chosen alongside the optional Y75 Aerokit Turbo S style rear spoiler, which not only looks incredible but also essentially upgraded this vehicle to a factory Turbo S specification before it became a separate model in 1997.

Eventually making its way to Japan, this already stunning example was treated to a RUF “THR” power kit and also many cosmetic upgrades to enhance the already excellent specification in addition to upgraded brakes. Offered exclusively for the Japanese market, this THR upgrade package is unknown to many but is reportedly identical to their Turbo R package offered around the world. Having already been originally optioned with the X50 performance upgrade, RUF tuning parts increased engine power to 490 horsepower enhanced by an upgraded RUF exhaust system. Cosmetically upgraded with RUF bumpers and rockers, 19-inch light alloy wheels with yellow painted RUF specific calipers complete the exterior of this truly stunning custom build. Inside the cabin, power tilt RUF seats trimmed in striking Flamenco Red leather with black accent piping are complemented by a RUF carpet kit, steering wheel, gauges, and aluminum/carbon door sills, which allow for a comfortable and sporty driving environment. Providing a specification that is equally striking and elegant, this upgraded RUF THR Turbo incorporates many stunning elements from its impressive original build with carefully selected offerings from RUF for a finished package showcasing the best cosmetic and performance improvements of the era.

Displaying 36,177 kilometers at the time it was cataloged, this highly-unique 911 Turbo RUF is offered in stunning condition with the recent fitment of new Michelin tires reported by the consignor. Accompanied by an owner’s manual, service history, vehicle tools, and the all-important RUF build documentation, this desirable example features the best of both worlds, beginning life as an impressive, individual build in Zuffenhausen before being further enhanced to RUF THR Turbo specification.