Unveiled at the April 2009 Shanghai Auto Show, the Porsche Panamera is a sports sedan that lives up to the Porsche legacy. The car has created some controversy with its style, as it has only four seats and a hatchback that some say create a bulky appearance, particularly in photographs. However, the driving dynamics prove that this Porsche has the inner workings of a sports car, not a sedan.
Appearance
The Panamera is large, measuring 195.7 inches long and 55.8 inches tall, making it appear a bit more bulky than other Porsche sports cars. The rear with its hatchback design seems a bit heavyset compared to other high-performance vehicles, and this is accentuated in photographs. A tricky design for the Porsche boys. With a wide, low and road huggin built the rear is left to appear bloated. Not to worry as the car is much better in flesh (metal).
Specs and Performance
The Panamera comes in three models, the 394-bhp V-8 Panamera S, the all-wheel-drive 4S, and the 493-bhp Panamera Turbo. All of the models feature a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, which is quick to respond to changes in speed. With Turbo it is possible to reach 125 mph at 2800 rpm in 7th gear. new car prices
The engine sounds powerful with a nice growl. Since it is a sports sedan, the sound is quieter than a sports car, but louder than a sedan, a design chosen by Porsche to appeal to the older buyers they created the Panamera for. There is a sport exhaust that will give a stronger sound at a button’s press.
The Panamera comes with a stop/start system standard that some drivers will struggle to get used to. The engine is paused when you stop and then resumed as soon as you press the pedal. Clearly the intetion is to save fuel and it works very well for city driving. Fortunately the system can be switched off. Overall, the car grips the road well and offers superior performance. It is a wonderful experience to drive this car.
Braking and Interior
The standard brake system has four-piston calipers in the rear and six-piston calipers on the front. They hold up well under the power of the car, even when the Turbo is taken above 100 mph. There are quick to respond at any given speed. Ford Fiesta Price
The interior of the car is designed with comfort in mind. Extra headroom and legroom in the rear make it comfortable for an adult to sit. It features the touch-screen infotainment center in the center console that Porsche debuted with the 911. The interior is sleek, luxurious and well put together. flat to rent Durban
Technical specs:
Top Speed: 188 mph
Acceleration: 0 – 60 in 4.2 seconds
Engine Size: S - 4.8 L V8; Turbo – Twin-Turbocharged
Power: S - 400 bhp at 6500 rpm; Turbo - 500 bhp at 600 rpm
Torque: S – 369 lb.-ft. at 3500 rpm; Turbo – 516 lb.-ft. at 2250 rpm
Fuel Economy: S – 36.3 mpg; Turbo – 37 mpg
Base Price at Time of Writing: S - $89,800; Turbo - $132,600