The Blood Orange RUF Rt12: A 997 Porsche Replica Not Officially Produced by Porsche, Stands Out as a Remarkable Masterpiece.
Diving into the Blood Orange Beast - Examining the RUF Rt12
In the realm of automotive tuning houses, RUF Automobile reigns supreme, crafting re-engineered masterpieces since the '70s. The 2005 RUF Rt12, now up for grabs on Bring a Trailer, exemplifies the zenith of what the 997-gen Porsche 911 could become.
Born from German Iron, Perfected in Pfaffenhausen
Debuting at the 2004 Essen Motor Show, the Rt12 marked RUF's venture into the 997 platform. Calling this a mere "tuned 911" is like labeling the Concorde a "fast plane." This limited edition, featuring just 13 pieces, is rarer than most supercars from the Italian powerhouses.
The transformation is subtle yet purposeful. The front and rear valances, widened rear fenders, power-retractable rear wing, and distinctive modular 19-inch wheels create a silhouette that is 911 at heart yet exudes a malicious allure.
Into the Heart of the Storm
The standard 997 Turbo might have been no slouch in power, but RUF cranked things up a notch. The twin-turbocharged 3.8L flat-six engine received KKK turbochargers, gas-flowed cylinder heads, massive 102mm Mahle pistons, and a custom cast-aluminum intake manifold, pushing out a staggering 650 horsepower. In comparison, the factory Porsche 997 Turbo produced only 480 horsepower.
The power is channeled through a manual transaxle to an all-wheel-drive system boasting a limited-slip rear differential. No fancy PDK here!
Engineering Beyond the Engine
RUF's approach to vehicle development transcends mere horsepower figures. The Rt12 sports Öhlins coilovers with a hydraulic front lift system, ensuring a comfortable ride alongside spirited performance. The stopping power is equally potent, thanks to eight-piston front and four-piston rear monoblock calipers clamping down on cross-drilled and ventilated discs.
A Pilot's Cockpit
Step inside, and you're greeted by black leather heated bucket seats with orange contrast stitching that extends to the door panels and dashboard. The body-colored accents on the center console and instrument bezels tie the exterior theme into the cabin, while the three-spoke RUF steering wheel, RUF shift knob, and drilled aluminum pedals remind you this isn't your average 997.
The RUF Integrated Roll Cage provides vital rigidity and safety without the aftermarket look of a bolt-in cage.
Daily Drivable or Track Weapon?
When the motoring press first encountered the Rt12, it was positioned as a daily-driveable track beast. With 27,000 miles on the odometer, this example has surely enjoyed more than a few spirited rides, just as Alois Ruf intended.
Under the Hood
- Model: 2005 RUF Rt12
- Engine: RUF-modified 3.8L twin-turbocharged flat-six
- Power: 650 horsepower
- Transmission: Six-speed manual
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive with limited-slip rear differential
- Suspension: Öhlins coilovers with hydraulic front lift system
- Brakes: Eight-piston front, four-piston rear monoblock calipers
- Wheels: 19-inch RUF modular (255/35 front, 305/30 rear)
- Mileage: 27,000
- Production: 1 of 13 examples built
Pricing and Availability
Currently bidding at $420,000 with two days left on Bring a Trailer, recent comparable Rt12 models have fetched between $397,000 and $910,000, depending on mileage and specifications. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of automotive history!
- The Rt12, born from German Iron and perfected in Pfaffenhausen, is a rare gem in the automotive world, with only 13 pieces created, rarer than most supercars from the Italian powerhouses.
- The RUF Rt12, a limited edition crafted by RUF Automobile, is more than a re-engineered Porsche 911; it is a malicious allure disguised as a 911 silhouette, featuring widened rear fenders, power-retractable rear wing, and distinctive modular 19-inch wheels.
- Engineering beyond the engine, the Rt12 boasts a manual transaxle, Öhlins coilovers with a hydraulic front lift system, eight-piston front and four-piston rear monoblock calipers, and a RUF Integrated Roll Cage for both safety and rigidity.
- Step inside the Rt12, and you'll find a pilot's cockpit with black leather heated bucket seats, orange contrast stitching, and a three-spoke RUF steering wheel, reminding you that this isn't your average 997.
