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Are You an Air-Cooled 911 Enthusiast or a Water-Cooled Junkie?

Ian Gerada , Membership Chair

As a self-proclaimed 911 zealot, I often find myself musing over the fervor that fellow Gold Coast Region members hold for their cars. You don’t have to look far to encounter debates over, “which Porsche members prefer,” and of course, the recurring discussion about the superiority of air-cooled versus water-cooled 911s.

Air-cooled 911s, produced from 1963 to 1997, captivate with their classic appeal. Their unique engine sound and raw driving experience are unparalleled. These models are straightforward and mechanically elegant, yet they lack the power and efficiency of modern engines. Moreover, they may require more maintenance, and sourcing replacement parts, can prove challenging.

In contrast, water-cooled 911s, introduced in 1998, symbolize Porsche’s transition into modernity. They offer improved power, reliability, and efficiency. Enhanced temperature control, reduces the risk of overheating, and they are more suited for daily use. However, they can be costly to repair, and some purists argue that these models have lost some of the rawness of their predecessors.

In my opinion, choosing a favorite depends on the context. For a classic, raw driving experience, an air-cooled 911 takes the win. For daily usability and comfort, a water-cooled 911 stands out. Regardless of the cooling method, the Porsche 911 remains a timeless icon, continuing to epitomize the essence of a sports car. The ongoing debate between air and water cooling, serves to highlight the diversity and richness of the 911’s heritage.

New Member Numbers

As of June 6, 2023, our Gold Coast community proudly maintains a strong membership of 3,234. This includes 2,142 primary members, 1092 comembers, and 328 eager PCA Juniors.

For those who have recently joined us, we extend our sincere welcome to you. Your addition to our community brings us great joy, and we look forward to the wonderful experiences we will share as a collective.

Stay Updated via Social Media

We invite all members to participate in our dedicated Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ gcrgroup. Here, you can stay current with the latest happenings and discussions within our community. Our Facebook group, with an impressive tally of 536 members, is a resourceful platform for all matters related to Porsche, the Gold Coast Region, and the array of events and activities that we host. Regardless of whether you are a seasoned Porsche enthusiast or just starting your journey, our Facebook group is an excellent way to engage with fellow members and stay informed about all of the exciting developments within our club.

Drive safe,