Jerry Seinfeld's RUF-Modified 1971 Porsche 911S Heads to Auction
Unleash the Legend: Own a Piece of Seinfeld's Porsche Legacy
Jerry Seinfeld's Enduring Connection to Porsche and the World of Classic Cars
Jerry Seinfeld, widely recognized for his comedic brilliance on television and in stand-up, is equally celebrated in the automotive world as a fervent car enthusiast. His popular web series, which features conversations with various notable personalities while driving classic cars, has further cemented his status as an unofficial ambassador for Porsche. Seinfeld's private collection has included legendary models such as the Carrera GT, a 959, and even Steve McQueen's iconic 917K from the film "Le Mans," demonstrating his deep appreciation for the brand's heritage and engineering excellence.
A Glimpse into Seinfeld's Shifting Collection: The Latest Porsche Auction
In recent years, Seinfeld has periodically released some of his prized Porsches from his vast collection through various auction platforms and private transactions. Earlier in 2024, he revealed on a podcast that a 1996 Porsche 911 Targa, which appeared in the final seasons of his eponymous sitcom, was also put up for auction. This particular vehicle held sentimental value, having been his daily driver to the set. Now, another extraordinary opportunity arises as a highly special 1971 Porsche 911S Coupe from his personal collection is being offered on the auction block, with bids already surpassing half a million dollars.
The RUF Transformation: Engineering Excellence and Bespoke Customization
Seinfeld acquired the 1971 Porsche 911S in 2008 and immediately commissioned RUF, a revered German automotive tuner known for its extreme performance enhancements and bespoke builds, to undertake a comprehensive overhaul. Over a meticulous three-year period, the experts at Pfaffenhausen, the same facility responsible for the legendary CTR "Yellowbird," transformed the vintage 911S into a unique performance machine. The original 2.2-liter flat-six engine was replaced with a more powerful twin-plug 3.4-liter unit, featuring individual throttle bodies and electronic fuel injection, complemented by a custom RUF exhaust system. To manage the increased power, RUF integrated a bespoke six-speed manual transaxle, reinforced the chassis, installed a RUF/Bilstein suspension setup, a G50-specification rear torsion tube, and high-performance 930-specification disc brakes with drilled rotors and RUF calipers.
Aesthetic Refinements and Interior Craftsmanship: Blending Style with Performance
Beyond the mechanical upgrades, RUF also dedicated significant attention to the car's aesthetics and interior. The body was stripped, repaired, and enhanced with flared rear wheel arches before being repainted in its original Gemini Blue Metallic. Exterior features include a power-operated sunroof, H4 headlights, European-style taillights, a single left-side mirror, and period-correct 15-inch Fuchs alloy wheels with grey and satin black finishes. Inside, the cabin was meticulously crafted for a blend of style and lightweight functionality. The rear seats were removed, and lightweight door cards were fitted. The front seats feature elegant black leather upholstery with Pepita cloth inserts, while a classic Blaupunkt push-button AM/FM radio occupies the factory location, maintaining a vintage yet refined ambiance.
The True Cost of Perfection: A Testament to Uncompromising Quality
Documentation from RUF, including detailed photographs of the transformation process, underscores the immense scale and precision of the project. The invoice reveals that the full customization cost Seinfeld €257,883.14 in 2008, which translates to an estimated €367,597.96 (approximately $426,639.71 USD) in current market value. This substantial investment highlights the unparalleled craftsmanship and the depth of customization poured into this one-of-a-kind vehicle, making it a truly exceptional offering for collectors and enthusiasts alike.