Golden: The 1997 RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa

--- Follow Us On Instagram At @stanceautomag ---

Order Your Car Magazines From Our Amazon or Etsy Store!

Already A Member? Grab Your Free Car Magazines Here!!

TL;DR

• Richard "Riko" Gutierrez's 1997 RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa has been beautifully restored and transformed.

• Originally abandoned, the car was rescued and reimagined with a striking gold finish.

• Riko's bond with Akira Nakai of RWB played a pivotal role in the car's revival.

• The build combines modern technology with classic Porsche aesthetics, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship.

• Riko aims to highlight RWB’s enduring legacy and its significance in the automotive world.

Richard "Riko" Gutierrez's - RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa

Instagram @rikos_way

Photographer: Marvin Recinos

Instagram: @mr2mivin

A Fateful Meeting with Akira Nakai

Richard "Riko" Gutierrez's journey with his 1997 RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa began with a memorable encounter with Akira Nakai, the mastermind behind RWB (Rauh-Welt Begriff). Known for his distinctive widebody designs, Nakai has left an indelible mark on the Porsche community. Riko recalls attending a three-day transformation of a 911, where he had the chance to reconnect with Nakai, sharing meals and stories that would deepen their friendship.

At the time, the car was undergoing a vibrant blue paint job, but shortly after Nakai's visit, the build came to a halt. “It was just a shell. No engine, no transmission, no wiring… nothing,” Riko reminisces. The car languished in a warehouse for a year, forgotten and incomplete. Then, a pivotal phone call changed everything: “I was offered the chance to take possession of the car. I couldn’t let go of the memories of building it with Nakai.”

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa: The Resurrection of a Dream

With the help of skilled Porsche mechanics, the car was reassembled, but not before receiving Riko's signature gold paint treatment. This stunning hue, darker than what he had used on his '84 Corolla, added a fresh identity to the vehicle. Once the car was operational and gleaming in gold, Riko met with Nakai again in 2017 to discuss the project. “He was the first person I told about my plans to finish the car. He was fully supportive,” Riko shares.

Later that year, Nakai returned to the U.S. to add final touches to the build and officially name the car. Riko explains, “Yoshiwara is a historical red-light district in Tokyo, still vibrant today.” Although the 911 was considered complete, Riko felt it deserved a significant update to showcase its potential.

Showcasing the Build at SEMA: RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa

“After years of building a relationship with RWB, I wanted to showcase that it’s still alive and thriving,” Riko states. “Nakai-san wasn’t traveling much, and the media buzz had faded, but he continues to work hard for his clients in Japan.” To elevate his car and gain maximum exposure, Riko partnered with friends at Toyo and secured a coveted spot in the bustling Treadpass section at SEMA.

The breathtaking gold paintwork, known as Aged Inca Gold, was meticulously applied by 24/7 Auto Body, enveloping every inch of the car. This attention to detail is crucial, especially since much of the cabin features stripped-down, exposed metal. A clear lexan panel spans the roof, replacing the heavy factory targa glass and flooding the interior with light. This panel, secured by a series of flat-faced rivets, provides a stunning view of the custom roll cage crafted by Marcus Fry Racing, a trusted collaborator on Riko's previous projects.

An Interior Designed for Drivers

Once inside the limited-edition RWB x Bride Zeta Zieg V seats, occupants will notice the absence of traditional circular dash gauges, replaced instead by a modern AIM digital cluster. The CAE shifter, topped with a beautifully crafted wooden shift knob sourced from England, is positioned just inches from the 3 o’clock position of the limited-edition RWB x Renown steering wheel. The interior features drilled sport pedals and seamless foot plates that blend into the floorboards, creating a minimalist yet sophisticated aesthetic. While some may view the layout as bare, it is rich with thoughtful details that merge nostalgic vibes with cutting-edge technology. Even when stationary, the cabin radiates excitement and is unapologetically focused on the driver.

Performance Upgrades for Thrilling Drives

Originally equipped with an automatic transmission, Riko's build now features a manual G50 transmission paired with a reworked 3.6-liter flat-six engine, supported by Rennline solid mounts. The engine is enhanced with Rasant's 48-mm individual throttle bodies, fed by a GT3 plenum. Fabspeed's RSR headers connect to a custom exhaust crafted by Marcus Fry, releasing gases with a dramatic flair. The MoTec M800 ECU oversees the engine's performance, ensuring optimal operation. The engine bay was meticulously cleared of unnecessary components, smoothed, prepped, and painted to achieve a remarkably clean look.

Aesthetic Enhancements and Custom Wheels

No RWB build would be complete without ample rubber beneath its flared fenders. Riko had to trim some of the flared pieces to accommodate the impressive wheel and tire setup. Like his Corolla, he turned to J.C. Pepino of Work Wheels Japan for a custom set of wheels, opting for Meister M1s measuring a massive 18x14 -61 in the rear, wrapped in 335/30 Toyo Proxes R888R tires. KW V3 coilovers eliminate any signs of wheel gap while significantly improving handling. Rennline top hats and camber kits allow for precise alignment adjustments, complemented by a three-point front brace for added stability.

A Personal Connection to RWB

Riko's collection of cars often blends racing, street, and show elements, but this particular build feels deeply personal. Its third iteration symbolizes his evolving relationship with Nakai. “I wanted to demonstrate that RWB is strong and can still compete with the best builders in the world on the biggest stage,” Riko expresses passionately. “RWB is not just a car; it’s a gateway to Japan. You need to walk up to the door and open it. Buy a plane ticket and experience RWB for yourself, and you’ll understand the passion behind it.”

Acknowledgments

Riko extends heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organizations that made this project possible:

• His wife, for her unwavering support and understanding of his automotive passion.

• Marcus Fry Racing, for expertly managing the build from start to finish.

• Juan Ayala, owner of 24/7 Auto Body Redwood City, for outstanding bodywork and paint.

• Jose Ayala, owner of Albany Paints, for creating the perfect color blend for his cars.

• J.C. Pepino of Work Wheels Japan, for delivering custom wheels in record time.

• Stan Chen of Toyo USA, for providing a spot at SEMA in the Toyo Treadpass.

• Rennline, Patrick Motorsports, and CM Autohaus, for their invaluable help during the final stages of the build.

• RWB USA, especially Mark Arcenal, for their contributions and support.

• Loks Car Wrap, for applying the stunning livery just before SEMA.

• Johnny Custom Motorsports, for dedicating countless hours to programming and tuning the MoTec.

• Nakai-san, for his ongoing encouragement and involvement throughout the rebuild, sharing videos and pictures that made him feel part of the process.

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa: The Build List At A Glance

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Engine

3.6L flat six; Rennline solid rear mounts; Patrick Motorsports solid carrier mounts, single pulley conversion; deleted power steering, A/C, twin plug; Bosch fuel pump; Rasant 48mm invidual throttle bodies, GT3 plenum, fuel rail, valve covers; Fabspeed RSR headers; Marcus Fry Racing exhaust system, gold engine fan; Sheridan Motorsports of Hawaii amber engine shroud; Moroso catch can; custom engine harness; gold hardware; MoTec M800 management

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Drivetrain

G50 transmission; RSR clutch, flywheel; Patrick Motorsports solid transmission mounts

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Suspension

KW V3 coil overs; Rennline top hats, camber kit, three-point front brace, rear lower arms; Marcus Fry Racing roll cage

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Wheels & Tires

Work Meister M1 18x11 -36 front, 18x14 -61 rear; Toyo Proxes R888R 275/35 front, 335/30 rear

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Exterior

Aged Inca Gold by 24/7 Auto Body; RWB street aero kit; Midnight Purple Inozetek livery by Loks Car Wrap; custom lexan roof, side windows

RWB 993 Porsche 911 Targa Interior

limited edition RWB x Bride Zieg V seats; Takata harnesses; limited edition RWB x Renown steering wheel; Rennline pedals; CAE shifter; wooden 917 shift knob made in England

Do you want one?

Call to Action

Do you have a build story like this one? Share your journey with Stance Auto Magazine and inspire our car community. Submit your story today!

Backlinks, Guest Posts and Feature Articles. Email us for the Price and Guide

UKTM no: UK00003572459