Luftgekühlt: The Hype is Real
Luftgekühlt has a reputation....
“Curated” has become one of the most overused words in the modern era. Everything from social media posts to music playlists to consumer goods are marketed as a “curated’ collection of so and so and this and that. The term doesn’t just mean choices, but choices and options that are carefully chosen and thoughtfully organized and presented with expert oversight and direction. Luftgekühlt has often been described as a curated show unlike any other automotive display around. Frankly, the use of the word and the hype surrounding the emergence of Luftgekühlt events, and Luft9 as the ninth version of Luftegkühlt, is known left us a little worried but nonetheless a bit excited. Was this the ultimate in “curated” shows as we were led to believe? Skipping ahead to the answer… yes.
Luft9 was set against the backdrop of Mare Island that served as a Naval shipyard for 142 years until it closed it’s doors in 1996. Mare Island was the location for the first nuclear submarine built on the West Coast in 1954, the USS Sargo. The shipyard built a total of 17 nuclear-powered submarines ending with the USS Drum in 1970. A place of great history and a rich backdrop for the air-cooled theater for the weekend.
The attention to detail and the visual harmony in utilizing the locations and placements to enhance the uniqueness of each displayed car was evident as each uniqure setting tapped fully into the “Instagramable” moment that spectators seek out these days. Not only was it the locations, from massive old warehouses to industrial backdrops of massive maritime cranes and other port industrial equipment but even the lighting and shadows appeared to have been chosen with a distinct purpose.
Started by two-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and Porsche factory driver Patrick Long along with creative director Howie Idelson, and assisted by racer, photograper, and filmmaker Jeff Zwart, as annual gathering of air-cooled Porsches, Luftgekühlt has become a must-see event for any/every Porsche lover. It is, by reputation, a must see
The term "Luftgekühlt" is German and translates to, "air-cooled." Thus the event is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the history and culture of air-cooled Porsches. The air cooled Porsches begin with the company’s first mass produced model, the 356 (1948) all the way to the (993 version of the) 911 in 1998. Mixed in between those years were other aircooled models 550, 718, 904, 906, 910, 912, 914…most of which are common to the Luft events. Attendees can expect to see a wide range of air-cooled cars, from meticulously restored classics to modified and customized vehicles that push the boundaries of what's possible.
The event also features a range of activities and attractions, including live music, food and drink vendors, active art features and merchandise booths. Attendees can also participate in various workshops and talks where they can learn more about the history and culture of air-cooled cars, as well as meet and connect with other car enthusiasts.
One of the unique aspects of Luftgekühlt is its emphasis on community and inclusivity. The event brings together people from all walks of life who share a common passion for air-cooled cars. This sense of community and camaraderie is what makes Luftgekühlt such a unique event. Hell, neither of us owns a P-car, but we felt right at home and among old friends.
$110 dollars (which included early admission and an event hat) was a bit of a pill to swallow for an event we’d only really seen on social media. That said, it was worth every penny and frankly a bit more. It was clean, well organized, and all of the staff and even the security staff were friendly and helpful. There were more food and drink offerings than we’ve ever seen at a car event, and the porta-potties were brand spanking new. Honestly, it was hard to find a fault worthy of mentioning. For what is effectively a pop up show the fact that it all comes together at a temporary location is a testiment to the team behind the event.
Luftgekühlt is a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the rich history and culture of air-cooled Porsche cars. From its carefully curated locations to its range of activities and attractions, the event offers a unique and immersive experience for car enthusiasts and fans of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or simply curious about the world of air-cooled Porsches, Luftgekühlt is an event you won't want to miss. We waited until Luft made its way to northern California for Luft9 and after seeing it in person we would likely drive or fly wherever we needed to in order to visit the next Luft.
But wait, there’s more!
For Porschephiles, Luft9 is the opening salvo of what will be a year long celebration. Porsche turns 75 this year and you can bet that most major car events in 2023 will have some degree of Porsche anniversary fanfare. At the other end of the 2023 car event calendar is Rennsport 7 which will be held at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca from September 28th to October 2nd. Porsche will undoubtedly pull out all the stops to make it the greatest gathering of Porsches of all time….as it has 6 times before. If you are on the fence about spending the coin to go to Rennsport 7, please take a look at our previous post(s) to help you make up your mind.
