Porsche 911 wide body kit

Types of porsche 911 wide body kit

Porsche 911 wide body kits (used mainly on the 964, 993, and 996 series) have several types because they serve different desirable aesthetics and functions. They include the following:

• Factory wide body kit

  The Porsche factory wide body kit was first introduced with the 964 Turbo model. All the models that followed optional or included the factory wide body kit. This kit consists of wide fenders that accommodate larger rear wheels. The factory edition is sleek and modern and mirrors the body of the original car so closely that it is hard to tell that modification happened at all.

• GT2-style wide body kit

  This body kit is reminiscent of the Porsche 964 and 993 GT2 race variants. It features more aggressive design elements such as a prominent rear wing and front bumper with air vents. It is popular among motorsport enthusiasts who like high-performance aesthetics. The aerodynamic enhancements improve stability at high speeds.

• RUF-style wide body kit

  RUF is a Porsche tech partner known for creating signature body kits based on Porsche models. RUF-style kits feature modifications such as carbon fiber elements and bulged fenders. They give the 911 a more menacing race car appeal. RUF kits are made using lightweight materials to ensure performance balancing aesthetics. The kits are relatively easy to install and come with clear instructions.

• Turbo wide body kit

  The turbo wide body kit is based on the Porsche Turbo models. It incorporates characteristic design elements like the whale tail spoiler and wider rear fenders. This kit is one of the most popular and recognizable wide body configurations available. It was fitted on the car to enhance performance and handling by increasing tire and brake compatibility.

• Supa-leggera wide body kit

  The Supa-leggera is a wide body kit with extreme lightweight elements from carbon fiber to aluminum panels. This kit is for buyers who want the look but more importantly the lightweight structure of the body kit. Despite being wide, the supa-leggera kit doesn't add too much weight as every element used to create it is lightweight.

• Powerkit wide body kit

  This body kit is based on the performance package offered by Porsche. It features upgrades such as sport exhaust and modified suspension besides the wide body elements. This kit is for those who want performance upgrades along with the aesthetic appeal of being wide-bodied. It includes features that improve handling and engine performance.

Key features of porsche 911 wide body kit

Porsche's wide body kit is popular with buyers because of the performance and aesthetic improvements that it offers. Here are some of its key features:

• Wider fenders and improved wheel arches

  The most distinctive feature of the wide body kit is the wider fenders. They allow for larger wheels and tires to be fitted. This improves handling by increasing traction and decreases the tendency for the car to lose stability during sharp cornering.

• Aerodynamic enhancements

  Many wide body kits include new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers which improve the vehicle's aerodynamics. They decrease drag and increase downforce, thus improving stability especially at high speeds. Larger wheels and tires can help to improve heat dissipation during high performance driving.

• Upgraded suspension components

  The body kit often comes with upgraded suspension parts like coilovers and sway bars to accommodate the wider stance of the vehicle. These changes provide better handling and ride quality during high performance driving. The new suspension components replace the existing ones and are installed as the car is being modified with the body kit.

• Enhanced braking system

  The increased wheel size and enhanced suspension allows for larger brake systems. Some wide body kits may include brake upgrade options for better heat management, decreasing brake fade and increasing stopping power. The brake system upgrade improves safety and performance at once.

• Material composition

  Porsche wide body kits are mostly made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, and polyurethane. These materials make up different elements of the kits. While fiberglass is heavier and less expensive, carbon fiber is light and super expensive. They all come with pros and cons as to installation, durability, and more. Being non-metal, the materials do not rust or corrode even if they get exposed to excessive water.

• Improved aesthetics

  Many buyers of the body kit are equally drawn to the performance benefits the kit offers as they are to the aggressive styling. The wider stance and lower profile components give the 911 a more intimidating race car inspired look. It enhances the visual appeal of the vehicle.

How to choose the porsche 911 wide body kit

Buying the right wide body kit for Porsche 911 depends on a number of things such as style preference, budget, and how difficult the kit is to install. Buyers need to consider the following key factors when choosing a Porsche 911 wide body kit:

• Compatibility

  Wide body kits are designed for specific models and model years of the Porsche 911. It is important for buyers to ensure the kit they purchase is compatible with the existing model, year, and body type of their vehicle. Some kits are also sold as a complete package with all the necessary parts. Where the body kit is not sold as a complete package, buyers should ensure that any additional components required for the installation are obtained.

• Material

  Body kits for Porsches come in different materials and each has different advantages and disadvantages. Buyers who intend to use their vehicle for casual driving or occasional track use should consider fiberglass kits. Fiberglass is affordable and easy to repair. For buyers looking for a lightweight and strong option, carbon fiber is highly recommended. It is expensive however and may require special handling during installation. Another material commonly used is ABS plastic. It is well-known for its flexibility and durability. Plastic body kits are ideal for daily drivers as they can absorb minor impacts.

• Style and design

  Wide body kits are designed to achieve distinct styles on the Porsche 911. Applying the kit transforms the car's body to be similar to that of motorsport vehicles or the iconic Porsche Turbo. Buyers should choose the style that appeals to them the most and will still be suitable on the road. Some designs affect performance differently than others. For instance, aerodynamic body kits improve vehicle stability at high speeds.

• Installation and fitment

  The fitment of body kits is important as it determines the performance of the vehicle but also affects the easy of installation. For easy installation, buyers should consider kits with provided detailed instructions. Some manufacturers even offer professional installation as part of their purchase deal. Buyers also need to consider whether the installation is a simple bolt-on process or whether it would require more extensive modification to the body work of the vehicle.

• Budget

  It is only prudent that buyers consider the cost of the body kit. The body kit costs vary significantly depending on the material used as well as the manufacturer and complexity of the design. Carbon fiber kits are likely to set buyers back the most because of the expensive material and technology involved in making the kits. Body kits also come with additional costs in suspension and brake modifications.

Benefits of porsche 911 wide body kit

A wide body kit offers drivers enhanced handling and improves the aesthetics of the Porsche 911. Here are the benefits in more detail:

• Improved handling

  The larger wheels and tires allow for better grip on the road, which in turn means better handling, especially during high-speed turns. The increased contact patch provides a larger surface area for tires to grip onto the road. This keeps the vehicle stable and prevents it from sliding. With the wider stance, the body kit reduces body roll on curves, keeping the vehicle more level during aggressive driving.

• Increased braking performance

  The wide-body configuration allows for larger brake components such as rotors and calipers. They provide an increase in braking power and efficiency, making it easier to slow down from high speeds while improving safety. The enhanced braking system also dissipates heat better, reducing the chances of brake fade.

• Upgraded suspension

  Many wide body kits come with upgraded suspension components like coilovers or sway bars. These work together with the kit to provide a smoother ride and better handling during aggressive driving. The new suspension eliminates the use of stock shock absorbers and installers replace them with suspensions that can handle the new wider stance.

• Aesthetic appeal

  The wide body kit gives the Porsche a more aggressive, race-inspired appearance. It visually lowers the car and makes it appear wider and squat. This is favored by most car enthusiasts to enhance the already iconic 911 look. The wider fenders and larger wheels create a more muscular profile. This enhances the sporty look of the already sporty car.

• Increased tire options

  The wider wheel arches accommodate larger, wider tires. These increase grip and improve the overall performance of the vehicle. They also provide a more rugged stance that differentiates the 911 from other luxury sedans.

• Enhanced aerodynamic performance

  Some body kits include features like front splitters or rear diffusers that improve airflow around the car. They reduce drag and increase downforce, contributing to better stability at high speeds. Components like wide fenders channel air more efficiently. This keeps the vehicle cooler and increases ventilations.

Q&A

Q1. Does a wide body kit make a difference?

A1. Yes, a wide body kit makes the better handling of 911 by increasing grip and stability. It also improves braking by enabling larger rotors and calipers to be installed. The kit allows for wider tires, increasing contact patch with the road. Moreover, the aerodynamic components work in eliminating drag and improve downforce which makes the vehicle faster and better ventilated.

Q2. What is the disadvantage of a wide body kit?

A2. The most prominent disadvantage of wide body kits is the cost, which can go up to tens of thousands of dollars. They may also add weight and require frequent maintenance of some components.

Q3. Are wide-body kits worth it for daily driving?

A3. That depends on the driver. Most wide body kits are designed with aspects that suit motorsport more than daily driving. They enhance handling and stability but also increase the contact patch with the road, which leads to tire wear. Ultimately, it comes down to whether the driver enjoys the performance enhancements enough to deal with potential downsides.

Q4. Do wide-body kits affect insurance?

A4. Insurance companies look at wide-body kits as vehicle modifications that increase the performance of the car. This can lead to increased insurance rates. However, the overall impact on insurance will also depend on the nature of the modifications and the personal insurance provider's policies.