The rwb widebody package represents the pinnacle of air-cooled Porsche 911 customization, transforming the classic silhouette into a low-slung, aggressive touring machine. Originating from the workshops of Ruf Automobile, this specific modification takes its name from the initials of their founder, Ulrich Ruf, and defines a distinct aesthetic that prioritizes performance stance over subtlety. Achieving this look involves more than just slapping on a set of flares; it is a holistic re-engineering of the vehicle’s proportions that demands respect for the engineering involved.
The Visual Language of the RWB Widebody
At first glance, the most obvious characteristic of an rwb widebody is the dramatic extension of the wheel arches. This is not a subtle addition; the arches swell outward, creating a void that makes the car appear lower and significantly wider than the standard 911 platform. The visual result is a sense of planted aggression, as if the vehicle is glued to the tarmac. This stance is often accentuated by a lowered suspension setup that minimizes the visible gap between the tires and the flares, achieving a seamless integration of body and wheel.
Iconic Design Elements
Beyond the flares, the rwb aesthetic is defined by specific details that separate it from other widebody kits. A long, aggressive front bumper with substantial overhangs displaces air efficiently, while a subtle rear lip spoiler provides downforce without screaming for attention. The most iconic touch, however, is the ducktail spoiler—a functional partition at the rear window that manages high-speed stability while maintaining the clean, uninterrupted lines of the Cabriolet window line. This combination of parts creates a cohesive look that is both timeless and immediately recognizable.
Engineering the Performance
While the visual impact is immediate, the true purpose of the rwb widebody is functional performance enhancement. The widened track width significantly increases the car's front and rear stance, which directly translates to improved cornering stability and high-speed confidence. This geometric change allows the use of wider tires, which increases the contact patch and provides better grip during aggressive driving, whether on a spirited backroad or a racetrack exit.
Suspension and Damping
To complement the increased grip, an rwb setup almost always involves a revised suspension system. Stiffer springs and adjustable coilovers are common, allowing the driver to fine-tune the ride height and dampening characteristics. The goal is to maintain a level balance between the front and rear axles, ensuring that the car feels neutral and predictable under heavy braking and mid-corner transitions. This focus on handling dynamics is what separates a show car from a genuine driver’s car.
The Mechanical Underpinnings
Installing a widebody kit is not a simple bolt-on process; it requires significant mechanical work to ensure safety and reliability. The process often involves rolling the inner wheel wells to accommodate the extra width and modifying the suspension mounting points to maintain proper alignment geometry. Furthermore, because the rwb package encourages the use of larger brake systems, upgrading to high-performance brakes and ensuring proper clearance becomes a critical step in the installation process to avoid any interference.
Engine Considerations
Although the visual transformation is the primary draw, many enthusiasts view the rwb widebody as a platform for mechanical upgrades. The increased grip and stability allow the driver to safely exploit the power of the air-cooled flat-six, whether it is the classic naturally aspirated units or modern water-cooled conversions. The widebody essentially provides the perfect visual and functional package for a car that is modified to deliver serious performance, ensuring that the speed matches the style.
