RUF began as a Porsche tuner, but in 1981 it gained full manufacturer status from the TÜV, giving it its own VINs and allowing it to build and register cars under its own name. This move freed RUF from Porsche’s shadow and set the stage for its future success. The first model to carry the RUF “W09” chassis number was the 1983 BTR, which pushed Porsche’s 930 Turbo performance even further.
A decade later, the BTR was updated for the 964 platform. RUF bought bare 964 shells from Porsche and built custom BTR 3.8s to order. The engine, derived from the 911 Turbo 3.6, was enlarged to 3.8 liters and paired with Motronic fuel injection for 415 hp and a top speed above 200 mph.
Other RUF-developed features included a six-speed manual transmission, unique suspension, and RUF/Speedline 18-inch wheels. The BTR4 added all-wheel drive, and only nine 964-generation BTR4s were produced, including this example currently listed for sale on Bring a Trailer.
This left-hand-drive BTR4 was finished in Polar Silver over black leather when built. It was later sent to RStrada, the official RUF representative in Torrance, California, where the interior was reupholstered with blue and grey cloth seats, blue belts, blue door pulls, and a “BTR 3.8” logo on the rear parcel shelf. RStrada also completed a full engine-out service.
The car carries numerous RUF options: a RUF six-speed gearbox with short shifter, 77-liter fuel tank, RUF leather steering wheel, RUF gauges with gear display and onboard computer, BTR brake kit, RUF-tuned Bilstein suspension with front strut bar, RUF front wing, and RUF exhaust.
Source: Bring a Trailer
