When it comes to the world of high-performance Porsches, most enthusiasts immediately picture the iconic 911-based Ruf monsters. But every now and then, something truly one-of-a-kind emerges to challenge expectations—and the Ruf 928R is exactly that unicorn.
This singular creation—commissioned by Samsung’s late chairman Lee Kun-hee—stands as the only Porsche 928 ever reimagined by Ruf. Beyond its rarity, it’s a rolling testament to how personal vision and limitless resources can redefine what we think a luxury grand tourer can be.
Why This Matters
- Rarity on Another Level: Ruf is synonymous with 911-based legends. The 928R is their only foray into Porsche’s V8 GT, and that exclusivity sends shockwaves through the collector world. It’s not just rare—it’s unique.
- A New Chapter of Ruf: While the CTR “Yellowbird” chased lap records, the 928R focused on blending power with comfort. It’s a Ruf for those who want their speed wrapped in understated luxury.
- The Power of Personal Influence: Lee Kun-hee’s commission is a reminder that automotive history isn’t just shaped by brands, but by passionate individuals with the means to make dreams real.
What Most People Miss
- A True Grand Tourer, Not Just a Hot Rod: The Ruf 928R isn’t about tire smoke or Nürburgring antics. With its four-speed automatic and plush burgundy interior, it’s built for effortless long-distance travel—the kind of cross-continental trip where you arrive as fresh as you left.
- Understated Performance: With a Ruf-tuned 5.0L V8 pushing out 360 hp and 354 lb-ft, it’s far from stock, but not chasing outright madness. Ruf upgraded carbon-ceramic brakes and 19-inch wheels give it modern stopping power, subtly blending old-school charm with today’s tech.
- Barely Driven: With under 1,600 miles on the clock, this car is practically untouched—an untouched canvas for the next owner, or a museum piece waiting to be admired.
Key Takeaways
- Ultra-exclusive: The only example of its kind, bridging the worlds of German engineering and Korean business royalty.
- Purpose-built luxury: While Ruf’s reputation is built on wild 911s, this demonstrates their ability to tailor a car to a precise vision of fast, refined travel.
- Auction Intrigue: Despite its pedigree, the 928R didn’t meet the reserve at Amelia Concours 2026—proof that even unicorns sometimes have to wait for the right buyer.
Industry Context & Comparisons
- Porsche 928 Legacy: Often overshadowed by the 911, the 928 was Porsche’s bold GT experiment—front-engine, V8, and aimed at luxury. Ruf’s take is a rare validation of the 928’s enduring appeal among the world’s elite.
- One-Off Commissions: In recent years, bespoke builds from the likes of Ferrari’s Special Projects or Aston Martin’s Q Division are all the rage. The 928R predates this trend, offering a fascinating early example of a billionaire’s dream made real.
- Market Value: While regular 928s can fetch $50,000–$150,000 depending on condition and rarity, a one-off Ruf? That’s in the stratosphere—if you can even put a number on history.
Timeline: The Ruf 928R Story
- 1989: Porsche delivers a body-in-white 928 to Ruf.
- Early 1990s: Ruf completes the bespoke build for Lee Kun-hee, finished in black with red leather.
- 2026: The car, with just 1,600 miles, appears at the Amelia Concours auction but doesn’t sell.
The Bottom Line
The Ruf 928R is more than just a rare Porsche—it’s a window into the world of billionaire passion, a testament to the power of bespoke engineering, and a reminder that some stories in automotive history are written only once. If you ever get the chance to see (or drive) this car, know you’re witnessing the intersection of money, vision, and mechanical artistry at its finest.