The Ultimate Porsche Gathering: Air/Water Show Unites Air-Cooled Loyalists and Water-Cooled Aficionados
Car enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The automotive landscape is about to experience an event like no other: the Air/Water show, dedicated to celebrating both air and water-cooled Porsches. On April 27, 2023, the gates will open in Costa Mesa, California, to usher in a new era of camaraderie between Porsche aficionados of different preferences. Tickets are available now, and anticipation is building for what promises to be more than just a car show—it’s set to become a cultural phenomenon within the Porsche community.
The question on everyone's mind is clear: Why create a new Porsche event when there are already several in existence? The answer lies in the passion of the Porsche community and the desire to celebrate the comprehensive history of this iconic brand. Luftgekühlt has been the go-to event for fans of vintage air-cooled Porsches for a decade, organized by none other than Patrick Long, Jeff Zwart, and Howie Idelson. However, with the successful launch of a 'sub-show' last year that featured water-cooled models, the founders realized it was time to widen their horizons and embrace every facet of Porsche's storied history.
This new event, dubbed Air/Water, will not limit itself to the sleek lines of the 911 or the charming nostalgia of the 356. It has widened its net to capture the hearts of those who revere models like the 924, 944, and the venerable 928. This gathering aims to evolve beyond the confines of a traditional auto show. True to Porsche’s innovative spirit, organizers are crafting an immersive experience—a rich tapestry that weaves together education, human connection, and tantalizing cuisine all within the realm of Porsche enthusiasm.
According to Patrick Long, professional Porsche factory racer and brand ambassador, Air/Water looks to transform the static car show concept into something far more engaging. Envisaged as a theme park filled with Porsche 'Easter eggs,' the event will provide a platform for intricate storytelling that spans the breadth of the brand's history. It encompasses everything from the water-cooled 911s, sophisticated Panameras, robust SUVs, to the cutting-edge EVs.
While specifics on which cars will be featured remain a closely guarded secret, it's clear that organizers are keen on peppering the event with rare specimens from both private collections and Porsche’s own heritage fleet. The excitement is palpable as Long teases the idea of unique collaborations, yet keeping the full extent of the spectacle up his sleeve.
Long's personal collection is an ode to his discipline and love for air-cooled Porsches. He strictly adheres to a collecting philosophy: owning one air-cooled model from each of the air-cooled decades and ensuring that each model is represented. It’s this kind of structured passion that has paved the way for recognizing the need for a more inclusive celebration of all things Porsche.
Despite Long's personal preference for air-cooled models, the Air/Water event symbolizes a coming together—a harmonious union of classic and modern Porsches. It is a clear invitation to enthusiasts to set aside their cooling system differences and simply bask in the glory of a brand that has continuously redefined automotive excellence. We eagerly look forward to witnessing this grand Porsche pantheon come the end of April.