Our team presents a highly collectible and seldom-seen example from one of the most respected independent manufacturers in automotive history, a 1996 RUF Turbo R. Built on a Porsche 993 Carrera chassis, this Turbo R underwent a complete makeover by RUF Bahrain back in November 2007 and represents the absolute pinnacle of the Bavarian automaker's air-cooled era. Finished in White over a striking Blue interior and showing 89,212 original kilometers (55,434 miles), this example retains its Turbo R specification, original RUF bodywork, and manual transmission. Recently imported from Bahrain and now titled in Washington with a clean U.S. title, and showing no reported accidents, it is positioned as a serious acquisition for collectors seeking a true manufacturer-built alternative to Porsche’s own 993 Turbo models.

RUF Turbo R holds a lot of significance within Porsche's air-cooled performance hierarchy. While Porsche’s own 993 Turbo defined the factory benchmark of the mid 1990s, RUF pushed well beyond those limits, offering clients a more extreme, more bespoke interpretation of the turbocharged 911. 

At the heart of the Turbo R sits a turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six paired to a six-speed manual transmission and All Wheel Drive. In period, the Turbo R was rated at 490 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, well above standard Porsche output (~408 hp), which was achieved with RUF-modified KKK turbochargers, revised camshafts, optimized ECU, upgraded exhaust with chrome RUF-branded exhaust tips, and oil coolers. It packs supercar-level acceleration and top-end performance that rivaled contemporary exotics at the time. 0-60 mph takes ~3.6 seconds with a top speed rated at around 205 mph. The emphasis was not only on outright speed, but also stability at high speed, durability, and driver engagement, thanks to upgraded brakes, firmer springs, larger anti-roll bars, and modified shocks. All hallmarks of RUF’s engineering philosophy, that improve dynamic and handling capabilities.

Visually, the Turbo R is immediately recognizable by its aggressive RUF-specific bodywork and badges, along with aero, that includes a larger fixed rear wing, unique front fascia, lightweight 19-inch five-spoke RUF wheels with blue brake calipers, and modified rain gutters. These changes were far from cosmetic as they were developed to aspects like improve cooling, downforce, and high-speed stability, reflecting RUF’s deep motorsport and autobahn testing background. This particular example remains finished in White paint, further enhancing the widebody stance, and retains its original Turbo R presentation.

Inside, the cabin departs from standard Porsche specification with Blue leather and suede upholstery, night blue and white stitching, and a suede headliner. The interior reflects RUF’s blend of motorsport intent and luxury craftsmanship, creating a cockpit that feels both purposeful and bespoke. A Continental head unit is fitted, while the overall presentation remains consistent with period-correct RUF builds.

According to vehicle history documentation, this Turbo R was imported from Bahrain and shows no reported accident history, with 89,212 kilometers on the odometer at the time of documentation. As air-cooled RUF models continue to gain recognition alongside factory Porsche RS and Turbo variants, the Turbo R stands out for its rarity, manufacturer status, and uncompromising performance. For collectors who value engineering pedigree above all else, this 1996 RUF Turbo R represents one of the most compelling air-cooled turbocharged 911 derivatives ever produced.