Luftgekühlt: Celebrating the Air-Cooled Porsche Legacy

It's been a decade since Patrick Long, a multiple Le Mans winner and longtime Porsche factory racer, teamed up with creative director Howie Idelson to create an automotive exhibition like no other. Luftgekühlt, a loving tribute to air-cooled Porsches, has become a must-attend event for Porsche enthusiasts worldwide.

Unlocking the Passion for Porsche's Air-Cooled Legacy

A Decade of Automotive Artistry

The 10th edition of Luftgekühlt, held on October 5 at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood, was a testament to the event's growth and success. The vast assemblage of Porsche's air-cooled models, staged across various movie-set backdrops, added a sense of gravitas to each vehicle on display. "This was by far the best spirit and energy I have felt from any show we have produced," says Long, reflecting on the event's evolution. The choice of Universal Studios Hollywood's backlot as the venue proved to be a stroke of genius, as it provided a unique and captivating setting for the exhibition.

Sharing the Passion

Long's motivation to launch Luftgekühlt stemmed from a desire to share his love for air-cooled Porsches with a wider audience. "This was just an idea I had after purchasing my first vintage 911; how to tell the entire story of 'Aircooled' ['Luftgekühlt' in German] to my friends and family who weren't part of the enthusiasm," he explains. The event's growth over the years, with attendees from 29 countries and over 400 cars from five decades of racing and street cars, is a testament to the event's ability to captivate and unite Porsche enthusiasts from around the world.

A Celebration of Community

Luftgekühlt has become more than just a car show; it's a celebration of the Porsche community. Racer and actor Patrick Dempsey, who attended the inaugural gathering in 2014, notes the event's ability to bring together a diverse group of Porsche enthusiasts. "I think Patrick, his effort and his passion, mixed in with Jeff's artistry and vision, I mean it's a perfect combination," says Dempsey, "and we all just want to get together because we have this shared passion . . . it's a family, it really is."

Curating the Automotive Narrative

The success of Luftgekühlt is not just about the cars on display, but the carefully curated narratives that bring them to life. Long and current creative director Jeff Zwart, a Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Champion, have worked tirelessly to create an event that celebrates the rich history and evolution of Porsche's air-cooled models. The event's ability to captivate attendees and showcase the marque's legacy is a testament to their vision and dedication.

A Tribute to Automotive Craftsmanship

Luftgekühlt is not just a car show; it's a celebration of automotive craftsmanship and creativity. The event showcases the work of custom houses and restoration specialists who have dedicated their talents to preserving and reimagining Porsche's air-cooled legacy. From the stunning Polaroid-inspired 1986 Porsche 911 Targa Hybrid to the Singer Vehicle Design's interpretation of the iconic 930 Turbo, Luftgekühlt provides a platform for these artisans to showcase their exceptional work.

The Enduring Appeal of the Air-Cooled Porsche

At the heart of Luftgekühlt is the enduring appeal of the air-cooled Porsche. These iconic models, from the legendary 917 to the timeless 356, continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. The event's ability to bring together a diverse array of these vehicles, each with its own unique story, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Porsche's air-cooled heritage.