Let's dive into the fascinating world where German automotive precision meets Japanese customization artistry. We're talking about Porsche and RWB (Rauh-Welt Begriff), a pairing that sparks both admiration and controversy in the car enthusiast community. So, what does Porsche really think about RWB?

What is RWB?

RWB, short for Rauh-Welt Begriff, is the brainchild of Akira Nakai, a Japanese tuner known for his wildly styled, wide-body Porsche conversions. Nakai-san's work is instantly recognizable, characterized by aggressively wide fenders, exposed rivets, and a raw, almost visceral aesthetic. Each RWB build is unique, tailored to the owner's specifications and preferences, making them highly sought-after and collectible.

The RWB style is a blend of Japanese tuning culture and classic Porsche design. Nakai-san's creations are not just about aesthetics; they also incorporate performance enhancements such as upgraded suspension, brakes, and exhaust systems. The result is a Porsche that looks and performs unlike anything else on the road.

The RWB Philosophy

At the heart of RWB is a philosophy of individuality and self-expression. Nakai-san encourages his clients to be actively involved in the build process, ensuring that each car reflects the owner's personality and vision. This collaborative approach has fostered a strong sense of community among RWB owners and enthusiasts.

Nakai-san's hands-on approach is also a key part of the RWB experience. He personally oversees each build, traveling around the world to work on cars in his signature style. This personal touch adds to the mystique and exclusivity of RWB Porsches.

The Official Porsche Stance

So, what does Porsche AG, the official manufacturer, think about these extreme modifications? This is where things get interesting. Officially, Porsche has never explicitly endorsed RWB. However, their stance is more nuanced than a simple disapproval.

No Official Endorsement

It's crucial to understand that Porsche, as a global brand, is very protective of its image and engineering. Modifications as drastic as those performed by RWB inevitably alter the original design and engineering intent. Porsche can't officially endorse such changes because it could potentially compromise the vehicle's performance, safety, and warranty. Imagine Porsche backing a modified car that later has issues – it wouldn't be a good look for the brand.

A Respectful Distance

Despite the lack of official endorsement, Porsche hasn't actively tried to shut down RWB either. This suggests a level of respect, or at least tolerance, for the artistry and passion behind Nakai-san's work. Porsche understands the appeal of customization and personalization, especially within the car enthusiast community.

Furthermore, RWB has inadvertently brought additional attention and interest to the Porsche brand. The striking visuals of RWB Porsches often capture the imagination of people who might not otherwise be interested in the marque. In a way, RWB acts as a rolling advertisement for Porsche, showcasing the potential for customization and individual expression.

The Warranty Issue

One practical reason for Porsche's non-endorsement is the warranty. Any modifications that deviate from the factory specifications can void the warranty on affected components. This is standard practice in the automotive industry. If an RWB Porsche experiences a mechanical issue related to the modifications, Porsche is not obligated to cover the repairs under warranty.

This doesn't mean that RWB owners are necessarily left in the lurch. Many RWB enthusiasts are willing to accept the risk of voiding the warranty in exchange for the unique look and performance of their cars. Additionally, some aftermarket warranties may cover modified vehicles, providing an extra layer of protection.

The Enthusiast Community's View

The car enthusiast community is largely divided on the topic of RWB Porsches. Some purists view Nakai-san's creations as sacrilegious, arguing that they ruin the classic lines and engineering integrity of Porsche's iconic models. They believe that Porsches should be preserved in their original form, or modified only with Porsche-approved parts and accessories.

Admiration for Artistry

However, many other enthusiasts admire RWB for its artistry and creativity. They see Nakai-san as a visionary who pushes the boundaries of automotive design. They appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each RWB build, as well as the individuality and self-expression that RWB represents.

A Matter of Taste

Ultimately, the appreciation of RWB Porsches comes down to personal taste. Some people love the aggressive styling and raw aesthetic, while others prefer the more refined and understated look of a stock Porsche. There's no right or wrong answer; it's simply a matter of individual preference.

The Impact on Value

Another point of contention is the impact of RWB modifications on the value of Porsche vehicles. Some argue that RWB conversions decrease the value of the underlying car, as they deviate from the original factory specifications. Others believe that RWB Porsches are highly collectible and can command a premium price, especially if they are rare or historically significant.

The truth is likely somewhere in between. The value of an RWB Porsche depends on a variety of factors, including the specific model, the quality of the build, the owner's reputation, and the overall market demand. In general, well-executed RWB conversions that are tastefully done and properly maintained tend to hold their value better than those that are poorly executed or overly flamboyant.

RWB's Impact on Porsche Culture

Regardless of Porsche's official stance, RWB has undoubtedly left a significant mark on Porsche culture. Nakai-san's creations have inspired countless enthusiasts to explore the possibilities of customization and personalization. RWB has also helped to foster a sense of community among Porsche owners, bringing people together from all over the world to share their passion for these iconic cars.

Inspiration for Customization

RWB's influence can be seen in the growing popularity of wide-body kits, aftermarket wheels, and other customization options for Porsches. Many enthusiasts who may not be willing to go as extreme as an RWB conversion still draw inspiration from Nakai-san's designs, incorporating elements of his style into their own builds.

A Global Community

The RWB community extends far beyond Japan, with RWB workshops and enthusiasts located in countries all over the world. This global network has helped to spread the RWB philosophy of individuality and self-expression, as well as to promote the appreciation of Porsche vehicles in all their forms.

The Future of RWB

As Porsche continues to evolve and introduce new models, it will be interesting to see how RWB adapts and evolves as well. Nakai-san has already begun working on conversions for newer Porsche models, such as the 992 generation 911. It's likely that RWB will continue to push the boundaries of Porsche customization for years to come.

Conclusion

So, to bring it all together: Porsche doesn't officially endorse RWB, primarily due to warranty and brand image concerns. But, they also haven't cracked down on it, perhaps acknowledging the artistry and the extra attention RWB brings to the Porsche name. The enthusiast community? A mixed bag! Some love it, some hate it, but everyone has an opinion. RWB has undeniably made a splash in the Porsche world, inspiring custom builds and uniting enthusiasts globally. Whether you're a fan or not, you can't deny the impact RWB has had on Porsche culture. It's a wild ride of German engineering meeting Japanese flair, and it's not slowing down anytime soon! Ultimately, the question of whether or not you like RWB comes down to personal preference. But one thing is for sure: RWB Porsches are a unique and eye-catching expression of automotive art.