THE RT12

In November 2004, RUF debuted their first house-built automobile, the Rt12. At first glance, its Porsche roots were obvious, and it utilized Porsche’s then-new 997-generation chassis. Look closer, however, and you will discover that the Rt12 is an entirely different beast.

The Rt12, built on the wider body shell of the 997-generation Carrera, represents no less than the sensational top of the small-but-noble RUF product pyramid. The first distinction is the Rt12’s powerplant, a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six based on an earlier “M96” blueprint. It is mated to a RUF-built transaxle and limited-slip rear differential, routing power rearward through massive 12.5-inch-wide tires. A proprietary and fully adjustable RUF hydraulic suspension system (with front axle lift function) underpins the car’s chassis, while braking is handled by a set of eight-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) calipers tucked inside a staggered set of three-piece OZ Superleggera wheels. To further maximize weight savings, the model’s bumpers, hood, and rear decklid are all made of carbon fiber.

An integrated roll cage is cleverly hidden behind the sumptuously appointed interior trim, and the cabin is further appointed with all the amenities one would expect from a road-going Porsche of the most refined variety. When equipped with the optional “tall” gearing package, the Rt12 could reportedly reach a top speed in excess of 224 miles per hour.

Each example of the Rt12 was thoroughly personalized to the specifications of the buyer, and it is believed that fewer than 15 examples were completed by RUF in total during the model’s five-year availability.

CHAUFFEURED DRIVING

This Rt12 offered here was finished at RUF’s Pfaffenhausen, Germany factory in the spring of 2009 and reportedly delivered to a very prominent business leader and car collector in South Korea. In his older years, the South Korean business tycoon had a well-known penchant for being driven around in two-seat sports cars—as opposed to an executive class saloon or limousine. This particular car’s five-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission provides an interesting clue towards this “passenger” theory. His traditional Korean CDs are even still in the sound system. At any rate, it was specified in a striking color combination of Candy Apple Red Metallic over ivory leather with additional carbon fiber accents, red brake calipers, and standard seats. As just one of the tycoon’s many exotic cars, this Rt12 remained sparingly used during his decade of ownership.

As such, since having been acquired by the consignor and exported from South Korea in December 2020, this Rt12 presently displays fewer than just 3,975 kilometers (~2,469 miles) since new. Please note that RUF can swap the Tiptronic S transmission for a traditional manual should the next owner desire. A quote for the transmission change is on file; please contact RM Sotheby’s for additional information.