A rare red RUF Yellowbird is up for grabs and collectors are flocking with $1.5 million ready
Published on Aug 06, 2025 at 11:10 PM (UTC+4)
by Callum Tokody
Last updated on Aug 06, 2025 at 12:43 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
A rare RUF Yellowbird Lightweight Porsche, once used by Alois Ruf, is set to be auctioned, drawing attention from Porsche enthusiasts and collectors.
Finished in Bordeaux Red, it’s the only Lightweight version of the RUF Yellowbird in this color.
Built in 1989, it is one of just six Lightweight Porsche models created by RUF. It was designed with a focus on reducing weight and increasing performance.
As the auction approaches, this car is positioned to be one of the most closely watched sales of the year.
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Bordeaux Red RUF Yellowbird is one of a kind
The RUF Yellowbird started as a 911 Carrera. But RUF reworked it with extensive modifications, resulting in a car capable of reaching 211mph during Road & Track’s 1987 World’s Fastest Cars test.
Of the 29 models produced, six were Lightweight Porsche variants.
These Lightweights were built to cut excess weight by replacing steel panels with aluminum, removing interior features like the center console, radio, and sunroof, and fitting thinner glass.

This particular Lightweight Porsche is the only one finished in Bordeaux Red.
Alois Ruf used this vehicle as his personal car before it was sold to a private buyer.
The combination of its Lightweight specification, rare color, and Ruf’s direct involvement makes it a standout in any auction setting.
Mechanically, the RUF Yellowbird retains its twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, enlarged to 3.4 liters, paired with a five-speed transmission developed by RUF.
This setup allowed the car to achieve performance figures that kept it competitive with supercars for years after its debut.
Collectors expect a fierce Porsche auction
The auction house estimates suggest it will sell for over $1.5 million.
With its Bordeaux Red finish and direct link to Alois Ruf, this car is expected to attract significant attention from serious buyers.

In recent years, auctions have shown strong demand for Lightweight Porsche models, particularly those associated with Ruf.
Collectors prioritize vehicles with clear histories and limited production numbers, and this example fits both criteria.
Lightweight Porsche variants are valued for their stripped-down approach to performance.

This RUF Yellowbird, with its unique build and Ruf’s personal ownership, is expected to spark a competitive bidding environment at the Porsche auction.
As the auction date approaches, this Lightweight Porsche stands as a key example of small-scale engineering pushing the limits of performance.
The sale will gauge its current market value and underline the lasting appeal of purpose-built, analog performance cars at high-profile auctions.
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Callum Tokody is a content writer at Supercar Blondie, where he covers the latest in the automotive world with a focus on design and performance. Callum has a background in automotive journalism and has contributed to a range of publications in Australia and the UK. Outside of work, he’s a design enthusiast with a soft spot for anything with a V8 and a good story.