RUF BTR History

The BTR (Gruppe B Turbo Ruf) debuted in 1983, the year Ruf Automobile received its German manufacturer certification. Based on the Porsche 911 (type 930) body, it used a bespoke 3.4-litre turbocharged flat-six producing 374 PS (369 hp). Cars could be ordered in the narrow 911 body or in the wider 930-style bodywork.

Because the BTR carried Ruf's own VIN rather than a converted Porsche number, it was legally a new vehicle — a distinction that matters both for regulation and for collectors. A six-speed gearbox became available in 1988 on customer request. Total production was approximately 20–30 purpose-built cars, with additional customer-car conversions that keep the exact number uncertain.