Cars & Conversation at The Hangars
A Perfect Morning for Air-Cooled Enthusiasts
On the vibrant morning of Memorial Day Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, The Hangars by Crownair Aviation Event Venue in San Diego transformed into a haven for air-cooled Porsche enthusiasts as the PCA San Diego Region hosted a special air-cooled only “Cars & Conversations” event. This gathering brought together 139 iconic air-cooled Porsches, showcasing the timeless engineering and design of these beloved machines against the unique aviation-inspired backdrop of The Hangars by Crownair Aviation Event Venue.
The Heart of PCA San Diego
Porsche Club of America San Diego Region, with its robust membership of over 3,100, is a cornerstone of the global PCA community, renowned for hosting a diverse range of events each month, including social gatherings, autocross, time trials, and driver’s education sessions. The Cars & Conversations series, held on the last Sunday of every month, is a beloved tradition that invites Porsche owners to come together in a relaxed, non-competitive setting to “hang out and discuss all things Porsche.” This May event at The Hangars by Crownair Aviation Event Venue was a special air-cooled only edition, drawing a passionate crowd of members dedicated to the distinctive sound and feel of Porsche’s air-cooled engines.
Key figures from PCA-SDR and the broader automotive and aviation communities were in attendance, adding to the event’s prestige. Val Hanke, President of PCA-SDR, was on hand, engaging with attendees and sharing insights about upcoming PCA activities. Her leadership and enthusiasm set the tone for the morning, reinforcing the club’s vibrant community spirit. Margie Smith-Haas, a trailblazer in motorsport as the first American woman to compete at Le Mans in 1985, brought a touch of racing history to the gathering, her presence a nod to Porsche’s air-cooled racing heritage. Michael Zurich, PCA-SDR’s Vice President, mingled with members, fostering the club’s tight-knit community. Ed Muscat, known as “Aircooled Eddie” from Kinninger Racing in Santee, shared his expertise on air-cooled Porsches, captivating attendees with tales of restoration and performance upgrades. Jim Gould, a Coronado resident and former helicopter pilot, connected the worlds of aviation and air-cooled Porsches with his stories. Chris Erickson from the Secret Car Club in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, added a layer of exclusivity, sharing insights from his curated automotive community known for its rare and pristine vehicles. Ivor Shier, owner of Corporate Helicopters, brought additional aviation flair, engaging attendees with his deep knowledge of flight and its parallels to the precision of Porsche engineering.
A Showcase of 139 Air-Cooled Porsches
The event featured an impressive lineup of 139 air-cooled Porsches, each a testament to the enduring appeal of Porsche’s air-cooled era. One of the standout vehicles was a 1963 Porsche 356B S, owned by Jason Lindquist. This pristine, all-original car, purchased brand new by Lindquist’s father in 1963, was a highlight of the event. Verified by its original Kardex, the 356B S drew admiring enthusiasts, its sleek lines and classic proportions embodying the essence of Porsche’s early design philosophy.
Another gem was a meticulously maintained 1973 Porsche 911T, its distinctive air-cooled flat-six engine humming softly as enthusiasts gathered to admire its period-correct details. The event also showcased a rare 1989 Porsche 911 Turbo (930), its iconic whale-tail spoiler and turbocharged performance evoking the raw, analog driving experience that air-cooled fans cherish.
A particularly striking addition was a Pilatus PC 24 with a matching “liquid cooled” Porsche 911 GT3 RS (993) by SD Auto Style, a stunning pair that blended aviation-inspired aesthetics with the pinnacle of air-cooled performance, drawing significant attention for its unique customization and meticulous craftsmanship. Next to it was the “other” liquid cooled car, another GT3 RS (996) that belonged to Paul Walker, and was purchased by the current owner before his death.
These vehicles, along with the other 136 air-cooled Porsches, ranging from early 356s to the final air-cooled 993s, created a breathtaking display of Porsche history.
Sponsors Elevating the Experience
The event was made possible by the generous support of PCA-SDR’s sponsors, whose contributions enhanced the morning’s festivities. PCA San Diego itself led the charge, ensuring the event ran smoothly and reflected the club’s high standards. NetJets, a leader in private aviation, aligned perfectly with The Hangars by Crownair Aviation Event Venue’s aeronautical theme, offering attendees a glimpse into the world of luxury travel. Mia Noi Trading Company brought a touch of local flair, showcasing their aviation-themed artisan coffee blends that perfectly complemented the event’s upscale, flight-inspired vibe. Garage Door Medics and Cool Heat HVAC, both San Diego-based businesses, demonstrated their support for the local automotive community, while One of One added a bespoke element, catering to enthusiasts seeking unique, custom Porsche experiences. These sponsors not only supported the event financially but also engaged with attendees, fostering connections and adding value to the morning.
The Hangars by Crownair Aviation: A Venue Like No Other
The Hangars by Crownair Aviation Event Venue provided a stunning backdrop for the event. With its modern, open design and aviation-inspired aesthetic, the venue perfectly complemented the 139 air-cooled Porsches on display. The spacious tarmac allowed for an organized showcase of vehicles, while the hangar itself offered a sheltered area for conversations and networking. The juxtaposition of air-cooled Porsches against the backdrop of aircraft hangars created a dynamic atmosphere, blending the raw mechanical symphony of flat-six engines with the romance of aviation. Attendees could feel the synergy between the precision engineering of Porsche’s air-cooled models and the cutting-edge technology of the aviation world.
A Community United by Air-Cooled Passion
The air-cooled only Cars & Conversations event was more than just a car show; it was a celebration of the PCA-SDR community and its devotion to Porsche’s air-cooled heritage. Members swapped stories about their 356s, 911s, and 912s, shared tips on maintaining air-cooled engines, and forged new friendships. The informal setting encouraged lively discussions, from the nuances of carburetor tuning to the joys of driving a naturally aspirated 911 on a winding road. For newcomers, it was an opportunity to learn from seasoned members like Margie Smith-Haas and Ed Muscat, while veterans enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and admiring the diverse array of air-cooled Porsches.
The event also highlighted Porsche Club of America San Diego Region’s commitment to inclusivity. Whether attendees drove a classic 356, a 911 SC, or a 930, all were welcomed with open arms. The club’s ethos, as articulated on its website, is to “embrace the full Porsche ownership experience,” and this air-cooled only event embodied that mission. From casual enthusiasts to hardcore air-cooled purists, everyone found common ground in their admiration for Porsche’s air-cooled engineering and design.
