Merit Partners is pleased to present this genuine RUF W09 996 RGT in Blue Metallic over grey leather and cloth interior. We have gotten less than five RUF cars over the last 10 yrs and in one distinct way, this car represents the most special RUF car we have ever received as it is an authentic RUF W09 car.

For those not familiar with RUF, in 1981, RUF became an official German automobile manufacturer, and the rest is history. The cars were built in-house at the RUF factory in Pfaffenhausen baring the all-important W09 VIN prefix, signifying that they are among the rarest, finest performing, custom-built and modified Porsche-bodied vehicles worldwide. RUF is the only manufacturer Porsche trusts to add their own vin number to a Porsche product and the only manufacturer that can buy brand new bodies in white from Porsche which are then made into limited edition RUF high-performance automobiles.

This two-owner 2001 RUF RGT is one of only 17 made world wide. It slots into the lineup as RUF’s upgrade to a 996 GT3. It started life as a GT3 body in white shipped from Porsche directly to RUF to become a W09 vin RUF RGT. This is not a RUF conversions or modification performed on a Porsche WP0 car.

RUF increased the hp from 360 to 385hp and added more torque so the car pulls harder from lower rpm making it extremely tractable. The chassis was stiffened with the addition of the famous RUF IRC, which is a hidden internal roll cage. If you were to remove the dash, the A-pillar covers, and headliner you would see that you’re completely surrounded by a race car-like roll cage. This creates an ultra stiff platform for the upgraded suspension and improves steering response and feel. The lighter weight clutch and flywheel assembly means the engine revs quicker for even better performance but the ECU tuning still offers effortless driving in traffic whether the A/C is on or off. RUF kept the exhaust quiet for comfortable Autobahn cruising but added extra depth when you’re really pushing the car.

The coil-over suspension carries RUF’s specific shock valving and spring rates. The larger wheels and tires offer more grip and better braking. The RUF aerodynamic package includes a new front shape, new rear wing with additional air inlets, and new rockers to add downforce and stability at higher speeds.

In additional to the IRC, the interior features a RUF steering wheel and shift knob, RUF aluminum pedals, brushed stainless door sills, and a complete set of RUF gauges. The special order Race-Tex style fabric covers the height adjustable seats, door panels, and headliner. It holds the occupants better during spirited cornering while remaining cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than vinyl or leather.

This car is like a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Comfortable enough for long distance drives on the Autobahn but offers extra responsiveness and higher performance when you decide to push the boundaries. The fact that it’s one of only 17 ever made and a genuine RUF W09 vin car only adds to the desirability.

Our experience at Merit in driving the car has been remarkably consistent with how RUF describes the car. Having had numerous 996 GT3’s over the year as a comparison, we can say unequivocally that the RUF RGT is an improved version of the 996 GT3 with significantly more investment potential. What we noticed about the RGT over a 996 GT3 is how the RGT is better in every category than the GT3, not by a significant margin, but when one takes into account the improvement in handling, power, chassis stiffness, ride quality, responsiveness and looks, the overall experience is noticeably more positive in the RUF. It is truly an exceptionally well sorted car and passes our 0-80mph fun zone in spades. And that to us should be the goal of manufacturers these days, to provide a car that is fun to drive without having to hit crazy speeds before the driver is engaged.

This RGT is about true fun and engagement at any speed but especially those speeds between 0-80mph which allow a driver to enjoy the car properly without going to jail. We can also say that the styling of the RGT gives the car a more aggressive and enhanced profile befitting the improvements made to the car by RUF. It is a true pleasure to drive and a car we hope to replicate again soon after this one is gone.