1994 Ruf RCT

The Porsche 911 Type 964 was manufactured and sold between 1989 and 1994. Described as '85 percent new,' it would form the basis for the new RUF RCT. The final generation of Porsche's last air-cooled 911, internally designated Type 993, hit the market in early 1994, and it had all the ingredients of an instant classic. Refined and sophisticated, the Type 993 wore modern styling, the previous five-speed manual was replaced with a six-speed, an upgraded 3.6-liter flat-six rested behind the rear axle, and a new multi-link rear suspension improved handling considerably. Both the 964 and 993 were ideal canvases for German tuner RUF to craft its own interpretation.

The company's founder, Alois Ruf, fascination with Porsche cars began in the early 1960s, and over the decades that followed, TUF has established a singular relationship with the marque. Initially selling and servicing Porsches, the company has evolved into a boutique manufacturer of exotic, finely engineered supercars. The vehicles they create retain many desirable qualities with their Porsche relatives but possess unique, inimitable character and style.

Alois Ruf Jr. took over the company in 1974, and in 1981, the German Federal Bureau of Motor Vehicles certified RUF Automobile GmbH as an independent manufacturer. The first RUF to carry a W09-prefix chassis number was the BTR of 1983.

The RCT ('Ruf Carrera Turbo') entered production in 1992 and was built through 1997. Styling and mechanical upgrades were featured throughout, with the star being its 3.6-liter flat-six engine. With Bosch-Motronic engine management, an intercooler, and a turbocharger (KKK K26 Turb), it developed 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque flowing through a RUF exhaust system. The RUF-designed six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential put the power to the road via 18-inch RUF-Speedline wheels. To cope with the power improvements, RUF modified the brakes, suspension, and aerodynamics. Numerous aesthetic upgrades included gauges and pedals, the steering wheel, and rain gutter delete on the A-pillars. Aerodynamic upgrades included a front spoiler and a large rear wing.

It is believed that no more than 100 RCT models were produced.

by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2024