The Porsche 911 widebody kit by RWB (Rauh-Welt Begriff) is an iconic modification style that enhances the classic Porsche 911's aesthetics and performance. Founded by Akira Nakai in Japan, RWB is renowned for its distinctive and aggressive widebody conversions, which have become highly sought after among car enthusiasts and collectors.
1. Overview of RWB
Founder: Akira Nakai established RWB in 1997. His vision was to create custom body kits that transformed standard 911s into unique, track-inspired machines.
Philosophy: RWB emphasizes the connection between performance and aesthetics, aiming to create cars that are not only visually striking but also offer improved handling and driving dynamics.
2. Widebody Kit Design
The RWB widebody kit is characterized by several design features that set it apart from traditional Porsche modifications:
Aggressive Fenders: The most prominent feature of the RWB kit is the significantly widened fenders. This not only accommodates wider wheels and tires but also enhances the car's stance and road presence.
Front Bumper: RWB kits often include a reworked front bumper, which may feature larger air intakes for improved cooling and a more aggressive look.
Side Skirts: Custom side skirts extend the car’s profile and enhance aerodynamics while giving the car a lowered appearance.
Rear Bumper and Diffuser: The rear bumper is often recontoured to match the wider fenders and may include an integrated diffuser for aerodynamic benefits.
Custom Wing: RWB builds usually feature a prominent rear wing that adds downforce and completes the aggressive look.
3. Wheel and Tire Fitment
Wider Wheels: The RWB widebody kit allows for wider wheels and tires, which provide better grip and enhance cornering capabilities.
Staggered Setup: Many RWB builds utilize a staggered wheel setup, with wider tires on the rear axle to improve traction during acceleration.
4. Performance Enhancements
While the visual modifications are striking, RWB kits can also support performance upgrades:
Suspension: RWB vehicles are often equipped with upgraded suspension components, including coilovers, to lower the ride height and improve handling dynamics.
Brakes: Upgraded brake systems are typically included to enhance stopping power, which is essential given the increased performance capabilities.
Engine Tuning: Many owners choose to upgrade the engine alongside the widebody kit, enhancing performance through turbocharging, exhaust modifications, and ECU tuning.
5. Customization and Individuality
One of the most appealing aspects of RWB is the level of customization available. Each kit can be tailored to the owner's preferences, allowing for a unique look and feel:
Color and Finishing: Owners can choose any color or finish for their widebody kit, often opting for bright and eye-catching hues or custom paint jobs.
Personal Touches: Custom graphics, decals, and additional modifications can be added to further personalize the vehicle.
6. Cultural Impact and Community
Car Culture Icon: The RWB Porsche has become a symbol of car culture, especially within the stance and widebody communities. RWB cars are often featured in automotive media, shows, and events.
Owner Community: There is a dedicated community of RWB owners and enthusiasts around the world, with meet-ups and gatherings to celebrate their modified cars.
7. Notable RWB Builds
Some of the most notable RWB builds include:
RWB ‘Pandora One’: One of the first and most famous RWB builds, this car helped put RWB on the map and showcased the unique aesthetic of the brand.
RWB ‘Sofia’: A stunning build that features a unique color scheme and extensive modifications, demonstrating the high level of customization available.
RWB ‘Siren’: Another popular build known for its aggressive styling and performance enhancements.
