Motul and RUF Launched Heritage Motor Oil
Owners of vintage air-cooled vehicles can soon purchase a new 20W-50 oil formulated for engines from the 1950s to the 1970s.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Car Culture
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Motul and RUF Automobile have unveiled a co-branded 20W-50 heritage mineral motor oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines produced between the 1950s and 1970s. The lubricant officially debuted at the 2026 Goodwood Revival.
Why it matters
Classic engines often require specific lubricant properties that modern formulations do not provide, making this tailored product a vital maintenance consideration for collectors. This oil was developed using shared engineering data from a partnership that began in 2020.
The new oil comes in a two-litre heritage metal can and is formulated for naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and supercharged engines. It remains compatible with both carburettor and fuel-injection systems.
The players
Motul
An international lubricant manufacturer founded in 1853 that operates in 160 countries.
RUF Automobile
A German manufacturer based in Pfaffenhausen, founded in 1939 and known for its high-performance sports cars.
The details
The product was created through a technical collaboration between Motul and RUF Automobile. By using shared engineering data, the companies developed a mineral multigrade oil that addresses the unique operating realities of older air-cooled motors. The oil is sold in distinct two-litre metal containers intended for hobbyists maintaining vintage classics.
Timeline
2020: Motul became the official lubricant partner for RUF Automobile.
September 15, 2026: The companies announced their technical development collaboration.
Early October 2026: The heritage oil becomes available for purchase through the RUF online shop.
The Home Front
The collaboration marks an ongoing trend of performance brands developing bespoke fluids for the classic car market. This release highlights the shift toward using specialized mineral-based chemistry to preserve the longevity of vintage engine technology.
If you are restoring an air-cooled vehicle, consider how this new 20W-50 oil may fit into your service schedule beginning in October. Keep your vehicle's engine documentation accessible to ensure this specific lubricant matches your car's technical requirements.
The takeaway
Maintaining classic engines often requires returning to specific mineral formulations rather than using modern standard oils. Check the RUF online shop in October 2026 to see if this new Heritage Motor Oil meets the needs of your vintage vehicle's engine specifications.
Further reading
For more information on maintaining vintage vehicles, visit our Car Culture archives.
Source note: This article includes information reported by F&L Asia.
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