Luftgekühlt turns 10

The celebration of the air-cooled era makes its triumphant return

December 9, 2024

The last air-cooled Porsche rolled off the Stuttgart assembly line in 1998. But the passion for these machines is alive and kicking, as evidenced by the latest iteration of Luftgekühlt (German for “air-cooled”), a traveling road show celebrating a storied Porsche era.

Co-sponsored by Porsche Classic, this year’s edition, “Luft 10: The Sequel” centered around the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo. An array of examples from the early turbocharged era of Porsche dotted the gathering, joined by a remarkable selection of air-cooled examples spanning decades – from restomods to factory-restored classics. It also coincided with the release of the tenth edition of ORIGINALE, the official magazine from Porsche dedicated to the classics. ORIGINALE 10 focused on the Turbo, with each edition given out at Luft featuring a custom wax seal.

There was the Porsche 914/6 GT Lufthansa, an ultra-lightweight race car that clocked record laps on the Nürburgring from 1970 to 1972. A 1949 Porschemaster-model Gmünd coupe, one of only 52 ever built. A 904 GTS from the collection of Jerry Seinfeld. And on and on.

Luft was again held at the Universal Studios Backlot in Los Angeles. It was an appropriate setting, since not only do the cars possess dazzling star power, the attendees do too. Think Porsche luminaries and loyalists like actor Patrick Dempsey, Porsche factory driver Patrick Long, and director Jeff Zwart (who co-founded Luft along with Patrick).

As compelling as the cars are, the stories behind them are even more so. Like the 1977 Sahara Beige 911 Targa S that’s been driven by a California father and son since 1980 – proving air-cooled passion can span generations.

In all, over 400 air-cooled vehicles were featured, discussed and above all, revered. “Luft 10: The Sequel” reminded us that these are more than just machines; they’re proof of the enduring appeal of Porsche soul.

Check out the highlights here.

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