One of the rarest road cars ever produced by RUF Automobile will cross the block at RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction next month. Estimated to sell for $1.5 million to $1.8 million, this 1998 RUF Turbo R is one of only approximately 17 examples built, with each car individually configured to its original owner’s specifications.
Following RUF’s recognition as an independent automobile manufacturer in 1981—earning its own W09 chassis designation rather than functioning solely as a Porsche tuner—the German company established a reputation for creating machines that consistently surpassed the performance of their Porsche counterparts. Introduced in 1998 as the successor to the legendary CTR2, the Turbo R became RUF’s flagship supercar, combining the proven 993-generation Porsche 911 Turbo platform with extensive in-house engineering.
Power originally came from a reworked 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six, enhanced with larger turbochargers, revised camshafts, bespoke engine management, and a freer-flowing exhaust system. Coupled with RUF’s six-speed manual gearbox, limited-slip differential, upgraded suspension, and all-wheel-drive system, the Turbo R delivered remarkable performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds while exceeding 200 mph.
This particular example is finished in Grand Prix White over a Black leather interior accented with Acid Green details. It features numerous sought-after factory-style upgrades, including lightweight door panels, a slick-top roof, shaved rain gutters for improved aerodynamics, an integrated roll cage, and carbon-fiber “lollipop” sport seats designed to accommodate racing harnesses. Unique composite bumpers and fenders with integrated cooling ducts further distinguish the car while enhancing thermal management.
In late 2022, the car returned to RUF’s headquarters in Pfaffenhausen for an extensive factory upgrade program totaling $88,975. The enhancements included larger turbochargers that increased output to 550 horsepower, forged 19-inch center-lock wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes with Acid Green calipers, refreshed front and rear bodywork, and a comprehensively retrimmed interior featuring Alcantara inserts, contrast stitching, and matching seatbelts. Additional refinements include RUF billet aluminum controls, high-contrast instrumentation, and a modern infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and USB connectivity.
Previously part of the personal collection of RUF North America, this exceptionally rare Turbo R was acquired by its current owner in 2024 and has seen minimal use since. It will be offered with its RUF Certificate of Authenticity, documentation for the 2022 factory upgrades, and original books, making it one of the most desirable examples of the marque’s iconic air-cooled flagship.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
