Rewriting the 911 Playbook
Before Singer Vehicle Design began reimagining the Porsche 911, RUF Automobile had already been re-engineering the German sports car since the 1970s to deliver greater performance. One of its most unique creations is this RoW 1985 911 Targa for sale, which produces about 430 horsepower – nearly double its factory output.
Listed on PCar Market, the vehicle is believed to be the only Targa built to BTR III specification, effectively making it a one-off. The package converted the stock 3.2-liter naturally aspirated flat-six into a 3.4-liter turbocharged engine when RUF reworked the car in 1990. It remained with one owner from 1990 to 2024 before passing to the seller, who carried out a full restoration, leaving it presented in nearly as-new condition.
A Ground-Up Revival
The restoration included rebuilding the engine with new internals, including the pistons, cylinders, valve springs, and timing chains, among others. The RUF-installed G50 5-speed manual transmission was also overhauled, along with the suspension and braking systems. All of these mechanical changes were said to be in line with the original RUF BTR III specifications.
The exterior, meanwhile, has been refinished in its original Guards Red. It also retains RUF conversion components, including a front valance with integrated fog lights, quad exhaust outlets, a rear spoiler, and the tuner’s 17-inch alloy wheels, now fitted with a new set of tires. Inside, the car keeps its original RUF modifications, such as reupholstered front and rear seats trimmed in black leather, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, and VDO instrumentation, while receiving new carpeting.
Other equipment includes an air-conditioning system, power windows, central locking, and a Blaupunkt cassette stereo paired with updated speakers.
The Price of One-Off Status
Given that some RUF-built 911s have sold for millions, this example, residing in California, is also expected to pull serious money. The current bid stands at $150,250, with the auction set to end on April 8. Although the odometer shows 46,100 km (28,645 miles), the current owner has driven the car only about 30 miles since its full rebuild.
In a sea of RUF-modified Porsche coupes, this Targa stands out as something different – an open-air alternative for buyers willing to trade a bit of rigidity for added character. Then again, with 430 horsepower on tap, any compromise is likely to be of little consequence.
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