Porsche RUF RCT EVO (1989)

Vaulting itself onto the world stage in 1987 with their iconic ‘Yellowbird’, RUF has since been known as the go-to for upgrading and modifying some of Porsche’s most exciting automobiles. Their experience with turbochargers earned the Yellowbird near mythical status, and the continued use of this knowledge still finds its way into cars today.

Its 964-generation modified cars are undoubtably the most iconic and in within that fabled run of cars, the RCT was the final RUF-modified 964 to be introduced before contemporary production moved to the 993. Numerous mechanical and cosmetic revisions were made to the RCT, including the fitment of a large, single turbocharger, which resulted in a massive 110-bhp addition in power over the standard narrow-bodied 964 Carrera upon which it was based.

The RCT (RUF Carrera Turbo) proved so successful for RUF that RCT conversions can still be carried out today, with the latest specification now known as the RCT Evo. Utilizing a 993-sourced ECU, the RCT Evo offers 425 bhp at 5,800 RPM and a monstrous 570 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, and the car will reach a top speed of 199 mph. With the addition of a single-turbocharger, the RCT package saw power figures eclipse that of even Porsche’s halo Turbo model.

The continued development to Evo specification represents a further rise of 60 bhp and 9mph in terms of top speed over the original RCT. The conversion also includes replacing the original five-speed manual gearbox with a six-speed G50 unit, fitting RUF’s iconic green-lettered instruments and upgraded five-spoke wheels, limited-slip differential as well as a full adjustable suspension. At the time of the conversion, the engine also received a comprehensive overhaul and rebuild to ensure it was able to handle the increased power.

The RCT Evo was re-introduced in 2020 as a complete, factory-built restoration. Whilst the engine upgrade alone is quite simple, original factory-built examples received a bespoke RUF chassis number as well as the subtle integrated roll cage, and whilst the new cars retain their original chassis, the integrated roll cage can be added into a complete restoration.

This RCT Evo is one such example. The commissioning owner sourced an original, UK supplied and registered 964 from a noted Porsche dealership before delivering the car to RUF at their home in Pffafenhausen. Stripped back to a bare shell, the car would receive an integrated roll cage ahead of assembly.

Notably at the time of restoration, the decision was made to opt for a total refinishing in carbon fibre. The Lightweight package includes a complete re-panelling including the front bumper, front hood, rear hood, rear bumper, roof, front and rear fenders. Furthermore, this example was optioned as a widebody but remains rear-wheel drive only.

Finished in a bespoke Violet Ayres metallic blend for the commissioning owner, the interior received a full retrim in Mojave Beige leather with body-coloured matching stitching. Leveraging a more modern Recaro seat design, the buckets tip forward allowing access to the pared-back luggage space behind the front seats. The seatbacks add cohesion also finished in body colour. After completion, the comissioning owner allowed RUF to use this very car for a wealth of marketing materials and news stories globally.

Having covered just 9,200 miles since its recomissioning, this RCT Evo has since been meticulously stored and maintained by RUF in Germany. Having taken delivery of another bespoke comission, this full carbon fibre bodied, factory-built RUF RCT Evo presents and as unique opportunity.

• Factory built by RUF in Pffafenhausen in 2019 using a UK supplied 964 Carrera
• Full carbon fibre body panelling including roof, 3/4 panels and bumpers and closing panels
• Integrated roll cage installed during restoration
• Finished in bespoke Violet Ayres Metallic
• Full retrim in Mojave Beige with Purple stitching
• Featured in numerous magazines & marketing material
• 425 bhp & 428lb ft
• 9,200 miles from new