For Sale at Auction: 2012 Ruf Rt 12 in Costa Mesa, California

Chassis No. W09BD0384CPR06148

RUF Automobile is renowned for its ultra-limited production and groundbreaking performance, often regarded as the ultimate choice for those Porsche enthusiasts who need just a bit more. However, RUF's creations are not technically Porsches at all-since the early 1980s, German authorities have recognized the company as an independent manufacturer. This distinction reflects the depth of RUF's craftsmanship, far beyond the realm of typical tuning modifications. The company cemented its legendary status with the iconic 1989 N�rburgring video of the CTR Yellowbird, and over the years, its reputation has expanded beyond an exclusive clientele to become a fixture in the collector car world.

The Rt 12 marks a significant milestone in RUF's history, debuting in 2004 as the company's first true ground-up build, based on the Porsche 997 platform. Initially, power came from a 3.6-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder, delivering between 530 and 550 horsepower. The Rt 12 S followed with a 3.8-liter twin-turbo engine, pushing output to 685 horsepower. The pinnacle arrived in 2011 with the R-specification engine, boasting 730 horsepower and 940 nm of torque. Rt 12's with the top-spec R engine could sprint from zero-to-60 mph in under four seconds and reach a top speed of 220 mph, depending on configuration.

Not only is the RUF offered here a particularly desirable Rt 12, but it is surely among the most sought-after examples due to its rare specification. Originally designated for the U.S.-market, this Rt 12 S was delivered to Japan with the top-specification Rt 12 R designation engine and the sleek S bodywork. The resulting combination, believed to be one of a handful of Rt 12s completed this way, is one of almost understated looks and outright power dominating a technical package that includes a short throw six-speed transmission and four-wheel drive. Finished in classic Arctic Silver Metallic, the S body features a more conservative rear wing for street use and a more user-friendly interior. Further options included ceramic brakes with yellow calipers, painted Interior Package, Sports Suspension, heated and foldable Sport Plus Seats, and the famous RUF Integrated Roll Cage (IRC). The car was sold new in March 2012 in Japan via RTC, the only authorized Japanese importer authorized by RUF Automobile of Germany. While in Japan, the car was under single ownership for nearly a decade with regular two-year servicing conducted by RTC.

In 2022, the car left Japan for the United States with approximately 38,000 kilometers or 23,600 miles. Unlike many Japanese exports, the Rt 12 S arrived with much of its Japanese documentation that includes its original RUF purchase and warranty form and owner's manual, and ownership paperwork. While under U.S. ownership, the car has received an engine out service at 40,318 kilometers from R-Strada with two invoices totaling $21,500 from April 2024. The first reveals a fresh dual-mass flywheel, RUF pressure plate, and RUF carrier plate and the second, the installation of a Sharkwerks 997 TT Coolant pipe upgrade kit along with a new water pump, thermostat, numerous hoses, spark plugs, a brake fluid flush, and more. Today, the odometer shows just over 300 kilometers added since its comprehensive servicing at R-Strada.

The Rt 12 was produced in exceptionally limited numbers, with each car custom-built to its owner's specifications. Given its rare configuration, well-documented service history, and recent maintenance by R-Strada, this final model year Rt 12 S stands as one of the most coveted RUF automobiles available, especially considering its factory-fitted R-specification 730 horsepower engine and 200+ mph performance.