Vehicle Description
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.
