Just over a month has passed since Project 964 underwent its RAUH-Welt Begriff transformation, and the experience behind the wheel continues to evolve. After allowing time for the bodywork sealant around the widened arches and custom panels to properly settle, the focus has shifted from the workshop to the road — where this car truly belongs.
This marked the first time the car was taken onto the mountain roads in its new RWB form, an important milestone for a build that was always meant to be driven, not just displayed.
First Impressions on the Mountain Roads
Before the drive even began, it was impossible not to pause and take in the car’s new presence. The way it now sits on the road — low, wide, and purposeful — transforms the familiar 964 shape into something far more aggressive. The widened rear, precise fitment, and turbo-inspired rear wing give the car a visual confidence that’s hard to ignore.
Every stop along the winding roads became an excuse to study the lines, especially against the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Any lingering doubts about the chosen components or overall direction of the build disappeared almost instantly.
A Build That Always Felt Inevitable
In many ways, this transformation felt pre-destined. Long before a donor car was even sourced, the vision of a 964 shaped by Akira Nakai’s unmistakable approach was already set. Seeing the finished form in motion only reinforced that belief.
The first viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape provided a quiet moment of confirmation — this was exactly how the car was meant to be experienced.
Relearning the 964’s Driving Character
Taking the car onto familiar mountain routes proved to be a learning experience. The RWB conversion fundamentally changes how the 964 behaves, requiring a complete recalibration of expectations.
Grip levels, turn-in response, and mid-corner balance all demanded attention. The car now feels more composed and deliberate, particularly through sweeping corners where stability and confidence stand out the most.
Suspension and Tire Setup
The suspension setup, combined with performance-focused tires, has brought a noticeable improvement in control and precision. Turn-in feels sharper, and the chassis responds more predictably under load.
While the tires currently fitted are far from their peak condition, the underlying handling characteristics remain impressive. Even with reduced grip in tighter sections, the car maintains a reassuring level of balance, favoring stability and safety rather than sudden unpredictability.
Cornering Behavior and Weight Transfer
One of the most engaging aspects of the drive was rediscovering how the car responds to weight transfer. Lifting slightly mid-corner tightens the line, allowing for subtle adjustments that reward smooth inputs and driver awareness.
This creates a flowing rhythm through consecutive bends, where the car feels increasingly cooperative the more time you spend learning its behavior. It’s a reminder that driving enjoyment often comes from understanding a car’s limits rather than simply chasing speed.
Engine Character and Overall Balance
With over 180,000 kilometers on the naturally aspirated flat-six, outright power isn’t the focus here. Instead, the engine delivers usable torque and character that complements the chassis rather than overpowering it.
The result is a balanced driving experience where momentum and precision matter more than raw output. Even when pushed, the car feels composed and honest in its feedback.
A Drive That Reignites the Connection
This first proper mountain drive served as a reconnection — the kind that reminds you why these projects matter. Each corner brought a deeper understanding of the car’s dynamics, turning the drive into a continuous conversation between driver and machine.
Moments like these justify the countless hours spent planning, adjusting, and refining a build.
What Comes Next for Project 964
While the RWB conversion is complete, the project is far from finished. New wheels are already on order, and once they arrive, further adjustments will follow. Updated tires and alignment changes are expected to fine-tune both aesthetics and handling, potentially introducing more aggressive camber settings.
As always, each change will require time behind the wheel to fully understand its impact.
Continuing the Journey
Project 964 is entering its next phase — one focused on refinement rather than transformation. There will undoubtedly be challenges along the way, but that’s part of the ownership experience with cars like this.
Every drive adds another layer to the story, and each update brings new lessons. The journey is just beginning, and the road ahead promises plenty more to explore.
