Air|Water Sets Sail in California: A Porsche Wonderland
An Unforgettable Weekend for Porsche Enthusiasts
The Air|Water 2025 event lit up Southern California over the weekend, drawing in more than 1,000 car enthusiasts. With a vision to establish Air|Water as a premier fixture on the Porsche calendar, the organizers delivered an experience that captured the essence of the brand.
A Celebration of All Things Porsche
At its core, Air|Water is about exploration and inclusivity, crafted by the brilliant minds of Patrick Long, co-founder of Luftgekühlt, and creative director Jeff Zwart. Unlike its predecessor, Luftgekühlt—which hones in on air-cooled Porsches—Air|Water embraces every model and fan in the Porsche community, making it more than just a car show. Once again, the event returned to Costa Mesa in Orange County, creating a welcoming home for Porsche aficionados.
An Expansive Display of Icons
This year, over 1,000 breathtaking vehicles graced the grounds of the OC Fair & Event Center. From everyday enthusiasts to exclusive "hero cars," the display was a rich tapestry showcasing both the passion of owners and the storied history of Porsche.
Highlighting Rare Finds and Historic Machines
One standout was the McLaren MP4/2B, a star of the 1985 Formula 1 season, driven by the legendary Alain Prost. This turbocharged V6 wonder, designed by Porsche’s legendary engine builder Hans Mezger, exemplifies the innovative spirit of the brand.
Other rare gems included the Rothmans-Porsche 911 SC/RS, which clinched the Middle East Rally Championship in the mid-80s, and the Schuppan 962 CR, one of only six Group C-derived road cars crafted by former Porsche works driver Vern Schuppan.
Interactive Experiences and Thematic Displays
This edition of Air|Water also introduced the ‘Carrera Carnival,’ a thrilling ride experience designed for fans eager to get behind the wheel of Porsche’s latest models alongside professional drivers.
Thematic Areas to Explore
- Mid-Engined Marvels: A focus on Porsche’s exciting mid-engine lineup.
- Water-Cooled Classics: A deep dive into the iconic 944 and its legacy.
- Porsche Tractors: A surprising look at the lesser-known, yet highly collectible, series of Porsche tractors.
- Action Sports Arena: Showcasing the off-road capabilities of Porsche with rally cars and innovative camping concepts.
Community at the Heart of the Event
Patrick Long emphasized that over 50% of Air|Water’s focus is on non-Porsche owners, inviting them to explore the brand’s legacy and community spirit. The event has become a meeting ground not just for enthusiasts, but also for collectors, brands, and aftermarket specialists to connect and share their passion for Porsche.
Air|Water 2025 also featured a vibrant display of exhibitors offering everything from unique artwork to performance upgrades, making it a true one-stop-shop for Porsche lovers.
The Thrill of the Auction Block
An exciting element of Air|Water was the return of Broad Arrow’s Porsche-specific auction, showcasing a diverse lineup of collector cars—from air-cooled classics to modern-day marvels like the Carrera GT and 918 Spyder. “It’s where the party within the party exists,” said Long, highlighting the electric atmosphere surrounding the auction.
An Eye on the Future
Looking ahead, the excitement isn’t confined to California. Plans for Air|Water Poland, set for June 13-14, promise to bring this captivating event across the pond, showcasing both local and international Porsche talent.
Conclusion: The Passion Persists
The impressive turnout and energy of Air|Water 2025 validate Long’s vision—a celebration of Porsche’s legacy that unites all who appreciate the brand. As the Luftgekühlt team embarks on this new chapter, the future looks brightly lit with thrilling possibilities for Porsche enthusiasts everywhere.
For more on Porsche events and updates, check out Porsche’s official website.
This revamped article offers a more engaging structure and dynamic tone to highlight the excitement surrounding Air|Water, while maintaining essential information for both enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
