A rare 1997 RUF BTR2 is listed for sale on Bring a Trailer, offering collectors an opportunity to acquire an early example of one of RUF Automobile GmbH’s most distinctive Porsche-based performance models. Reportedly the first of approximately 10 examples built, this Speed Yellow coupe combines the proportions of the 993-generation Porsche 911 with extensive engineering modifications developed by the German manufacturer.
RUF’s reputation was established with the original BTR, introduced in 1983 following the company’s recognition as an independent automobile manufacturer in Germany. Based on the Porsche 930 Turbo, the BTR delivered 374 horsepower and a claimed top speed of 187 mph. Its performance attracted international attention when Road & Track named it the world’s fastest production car in its September 1984 testing.
The BTR2 continued that philosophy using the 993 Carrera platform, arriving two years before Porsche introduced the 993 Turbo. Unlike its predecessor, it employed a rear-wheel-drive configuration paired with a six-speed manual transmission, emphasizing mechanical engagement alongside substantial turbocharged performance.
Power comes from a turbocharged and intercooled 3.6-liter flat-six derived from the naturally aspirated Porsche Carrera engine. RUF fitted a KKK turbocharger, revised camshafts, an intercooler, an auxiliary oil cooler, a modified exhaust system, and recalibrated Bosch Motronic engine management. Factory-rated output stands at 420 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 435 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.
A RUF-specific six-speed manual transaxle sends power to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential with 60-percent lockup. The suspension features Bilstein adjustable coilovers and stiffer anti-roll bars, lowering the ride height by approximately 30 millimeters compared with the standard Carrera. Cross-drilled, ventilated disc brakes measure 320 millimeters at the front and 300 millimeters at the rear.
The Speed Yellow bodywork features a RUF-specific front valance with widened air inlets, horizontal nose vents, and a chin spoiler with winglets. A tea-tray rear spoiler, aerodynamic mirrors, and RUF badging further distinguish the car. Silver 18-inch RUF alloy wheels wear Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires in staggered 225/40ZR18 front and 265/35ZR18 rear sizes.
Inside, carbon-fiber fixed-back bucket seats trimmed in black leather feature embroidered yellow RUF logos. RS-style door panels, yellow-accented floor mats, BTR2 rear-bulkhead branding, drilled pedals, and green-letter VDO instrumentation reinforce the model’s focused character, while air conditioning, power windows, and a Porsche Classic radio retain everyday usability.
Originally delivered to Japan, the car moved to the United Kingdom in 2015 before a California collector commissioned its conversion to US-market specifications by RUF in 2017. Following subsequent ownership changes, it was acquired by its current owner in 2026.
Source: Bring a Trailer
