1996 RUF Turbo R

Some cars become significant because of rarity, some because of provenance, and some because of the stories they carry. This 1996 RUF Turbo R, originally delivered new to Singapore, represents all three.

This example began its life as a 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo from the 993 generation, finished in Arena Red and delivered new to the Singapore market. The current owner acquired the car in 1999, and it has remained under the same meticulous ownership ever since. Even in its factory form, a right-hand-drive 993 Turbo is already a rare sight. As a long-time daily-driven “black plate” air-cooled 911, its significance in Singapore’s car culture is undeniable.

In 2001, the owner made the decision that would define this car’s legacy. The car was shipped directly to RUF headquarters in Pfaffenhausen for a comprehensive factory-executed Turbo R conversion.

During its time there, the owner also decided to give the car a new identity by refinishing it in Blossom Yellow, the iconic colour made famous by RUF’s legendary Yellowbird. This choice not only enhanced the car’s presence but connected it visually to one of the most celebrated performance cars in Porsche and RUF history.

The Turbo R package completed in Pfaffenhausen consisted of:

• Complete engine upgrade, producing 510 hp on the dyno in 2001
• Taller sixth gear for a 325 km/h top speed
• RUF sport suspension (later upgraded to Bilstein PSS9)
• Integrated RUF roll cage• CTR2 composite front bumper
• CTR2 mirrors sourced directly from RUF
• Full interior retrim
• RUF instrument cluster
• RUF-embossed 996 Cup Car seats
• 18-inch RUF flat-face wheels
• Front strut brace
• An original Porsche 993 GT2 rear wing

While the car was in Pfaffenhausen, additional options from the CTR2 program were also selected, further elevating the specification into a truly one-off creation. The result is a Turbo R that does not just follow RUF’s formula but expresses it in a unique, personalised and highly specialised form.

With RUF values climbing steadily worldwide, this represents an extraordinary opportunity to own one of Singapore’s most iconic 911s without the premium associated with a RUF VIN car, while still carrying the rarity, craftsmanship and provenance of a true Pfaffenhausen-built machine. This is, in every sense, a bespoke 1 of 1 specification.

Despite its rarity, the car has never been a garage ornament. It has been actively driven, enjoyed and cared for throughout its life. Its long-term owner understood what RUF intended these cars to be and used it exactly as such: a high-performance grand touring machine with real-world capability and personality.

Now, after decades in caring hands, this RUF Turbo R is seeking its next custodian. It is a chance to continue the story of one of Singapore’s most recognisable air-cooled icons, built in Pfaffenhausen and loved on local roads.

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