“Fifth Gear” once featured a segment titled “Cheapskate Alternatives,” where they’d first showcase an Italian supercar or the latest 911 Turbo, followed by budget-friendly options that offered a similar experience for a fraction of the cost. Typically, the VW Beetle wouldn’t qualify as a budget 911, but today that’s changed. All because here is a real RWB Volkswagen Beetle widebody. Cool air-cooled VW Beetle with wide body kit isn’t just a 3D render any more.
This is thanks to a unique build that captures the spirit of the 911. It features an exact widebody kit design inspired by RWB, tailored specifically to resemble the 993 Turbo generation.
There has long been an unspoken link between the iconic VW Beetle and the 911. Porsche developed the original Beetle during a period VW prefers not to highlight, and it’s often joked that a 911 is just a more refined Beetle—something Jeremy Clarkson quipped to tease his Porsche-enthusiast co-hosts.
The recent Beetle generations have little connection to Porsche’s Taycan makers since they were FWD and built on Golf platforms. However, both the classic Beetle and 911 have rear-mounted engines with flat configurations.
Though the Beetle isn’t a true sports car, it has long been a favorite in the custom car scene. Generations of young mechanics honed their skills on it, drawn by its simplicity and low-cost parts. We’ve seen WRX and even Porsche engine swaps, but until now, no one had attempted an RWB Beetle.
What is RWB?
RWB is a renowned Japanese brand specializing in widebody kits, primarily for classic Porsche 911 models. Founded by Akira Nakai, RWB is known for Nakai’s willingness to use angle grinders and saws on some of the priciest German automotive icons.
The name RWB stands for RAUH-Welt Begriff, a German phrase meaning “rough world concept.” You may already recognize some of Akira’s standout creations, like the Rotana and Stella Artois builds. If not, you should check them out—they’re worth seeing!
Back? Great. Now, let’s talk about a dilemma with RWB’s approach. Many classic 911s are purchased by enthusiasts who seek to preserve these cars. These are typically individuals who prefer a slower, more refined experience, savoring the car’s heritage. On the other hand, Akira Nakai and his fans want to push these cars to the limit, often driving them like track-ready Corolla AE86s, which some people find controversial.
So, this RWB Volkswagen Beetle Widebody was created in a cool atmosphere. And here was mixed many local traditions. Japanese styling of German cars was used to modify a symbol of Brazilian automotive industry. By the way this awesome Beetle is not unique. We have on out site else article about absolutely insane Mad Max Volkswagen Bus! You should check that article out as well.
The Brazilian connection
In November 2019, I came across an intriguing concept: a Volkswagen Beetle with a rear-wheel-drive look. It was just a digital rendering, but I knew instantly it was unique. The artist, rob3rtdesign, often creates 3D car designs that take models specific to the Brazilian market and give them an American or JDM-inspired twist, as he did here.
Thanks to Robert’s work, I also learned about models like the Chevy Opala and the Volkswagen SP2. I already knew, though, that the Beetle was a beloved classic there. Its affordable, straightforward design kept it in production locally for many years.
The specific details of this build aren’t fully known, but it replicates the rob3rtdesign rendering perfectly. The Beetle coupe features massive, handmade fender flares, seemingly molded to allow copies to be produced. Up front, there’s a huge spoiler with adjustable struts and canard winglets that extend up the wide sides.
The rear of the car stays true to the aggressive styling, with additional bolt-on fenders and a diffuser. The chosen black disc wheels fit perfectly. However, unlike the original artist’s rendering, this build has an entirely custom interior. It combines a race-inspired look, similar to vintage Porsches, with massive speakers. Every element appears high-quality and thoughtfully crafted, making this possibly one of the world’s most luxurious Beetles. Meanwhile, a builder named Henrique Carvalho is working on a Targa variant of Robert’s RWD Beetle design.
Creation of such RWB Volkswagen Beetle Widebody needed many working hours. There are a lot of needed parts were created especially for this Beetle. And these parts are not plastic. Metal wide fenders, wheels. It’s really many working hours. But else you need professionals, who can make such cool custom parts. I’ve seen many cool modified VW Beetles. And this one is definitely one of the best. And I am absolutely this Beetle is unique. Most part of tuned classic Volkswagen Beetle were stance projects. They are looking incredible, but that cars were created by quite ordinary recipe. Wheels and fitment, probably else a few improvements for exterior. This project is more global.