Jerry Seinfeld and RUF: The Story Behind the Ultimate Custom Porsche 911
When two legendary names in the automotive world, comedian and Porsche connoisseur Jerry Seinfeld and esteemed German manufacturer RUF Automobile, come together, the result is bound to be extraordinary. This is the story of a unique collaboration that produced a one-of-a-kind Porsche 911, a vehicle that perfectly blends understated aesthetics with earth-shattering performance.
A Partnership Forged in Porsche Passion
Jerry Seinfeld is renowned not just for his comedy but for his incredible and meticulously curated collection of Porsches. He is a true enthusiast who values the history, engineering, and pure driving experience of the Stuttgart brand. On the other side is RUF Automobile, a company that has earned a legendary status for taking Porsche platforms and re-engineering them into bespoke supercars, so much so that they are recognized as a manufacturer in their own right.
The collaboration between such a discerning client and a master craftsman was destined for greatness. Seinfeld didn’t just want a fast car; he wanted a car built to his specific, discerning tastes, and RUF was the perfect partner to bring that vision to life.
The Anatomy of a Bespoke RUF BTR
The project began with a 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4. While a fantastic car in its own right, it served as a mere canvas for RUF’s artistry and Seinfeld’s vision. The goal was to create a “BTR” specification car—a model famous for its single-turbo setup and blistering speed—but with a series of unique, personal touches.
Under the Whale Tail: RUF’s Turbocharged Power
The heart of the transformation lies in the engine bay. RUF removed the standard 3.6-liter engine and installed their own 3.4-liter flat-six, enhanced with a single, potent K27 turbocharger. This upgrade catapulted the car’s output to over 400 horsepower, a massive leap from the original Carrera 4. Paired with a RUF-specific five-speed manual transmission, the powertrain was built for pure, unadulterated performance.
A Comedian’s Spec: Unique Color and Interior
What truly sets this car apart is its unique aesthetic, personally specified by Seinfeld. The exterior is finished in a subtle and sophisticated Slate Gray, a classic Porsche color that belies the power lurking within. This understated exterior is contrasted by a bold and completely bespoke green leather interior. From the seats and dashboard to the door cards and transmission tunnel, the vibrant green makes an unforgettable statement. The cabin is finished with classic RUF touches, including the signature gauges and steering wheel, keeping the focus entirely on the driving experience.
The Pursuit of Purity: Drivetrain and Chassis
In a move that speaks volumes about Seinfeld’s desire for a pure driving feel, one of the most significant modifications was the removal of the Carrera 4’s all-wheel-drive system. The car was painstakingly converted to a traditional rear-wheel-drive layout, shedding weight and complexity to deliver a more direct and engaging connection between the driver, the car, and the road. The build was completed with iconic 17-inch RUF Speedline wheels and an upgraded suspension system to handle the immense increase in power.
What Makes This Seinfeld RUF Stand Apart?
This car is more than just a modified Porsche; it is a significant piece of automotive history. Several factors contribute to its legendary status:
- Celebrity Provenance: It was directly commissioned, specified, and owned by Jerry Seinfeld, one of the most famous Porsche collectors in the world.
- RUF Authenticity: This is a genuine, manufacturer-built RUF BTR, representing the pinnacle of the company’s 1990s engineering and craftsmanship.
- One-of-One Specification: The unique Slate Gray over custom green leather combination, chosen by Seinfeld himself, ensures this car is unlike any other RUF on the planet.
- Engineering Purity: The deliberate conversion from all-wheel-drive to rear-wheel-drive highlights a purist’s commitment to creating the ultimate driver’s car.
