Just got back from Arizona, had a fantastic time at the Porsche training facility. I was able to learn quite a bit about the car, and needless to say, was impressed by the Panamera. The highlight of the trip was the track sessions at the Firebird International Raceway. We were given a few competitor vehicles and a few Panameras, and we were able to make our own comparisons and make our own judgements.

Comparison Vehicles and my thoughts:

• Audi S6 - We ran short of time, and I was unable to drive this one. The group consensus was that it was underpowered.
• Audi A8 (S8 is no longer available in the US) - The A8 was out-classed here....it drove more like a Cadillac. Truth be told......I had the most fun in this car, the tires were screaming in agony, it understeered.......it was all over the place. But on the positive side, it's a great looking car and seemed like a comfy limo for a road trip.
• BMW M5 ( this one was out of commision)
• BMW 750i - twin-turbo V8. It was fast, handling was OK. It seemed over-managed by electrical systems. And during the 1/4 mile straight-away, the 50-75 mph range seemed weak, I can't explain it. After 75 the power seemed to come back. Maybe it's me?? The BMW seemed to have the most electronic gizmos, some seemed over the top. I've always loved the Bimmers, this one didn't do it for me.
• Mercedes S63 AMG - Ran short of time, I didn't get to drive this one. Apparently full of power.
• Mercedes S550 - This was a HUGE boat, it had that Jennifer Lopez kind of glamour to it. The seat massagers were fantastic! Obviously this one wasn't meant to run the slaloms, but it was very opulent.
• Mercedes CLS550 - After the Panameras, this would have been my next choice. It handled relatively well and had solid acceleration, my only complaint was the materials used, the interior felt cheap in comparison to the other vehicles.
• Maserati QP S - I expected a lot of this vehicle, I figured this was the Ferrari of the group. Understeered a bit, swayed often, and the interior was full of after-thoughts. It had a great sound, and looked as fancy as Itallian boots, but no thanks.
• Panamera S - Great power, sports car handling, the rear wheel drive was great fun. The brakes were great in a panic stop (some yahoo stopped prematurely in the Masarati, got to test the ABS system).
• Panamera 4S - My favorite of the bunch. The right amount of power, and the all wheel drive gave me the confidence to push the car harder. After two turns I actually trusted the car, we became one!!
• Panamera Turbo (with PCCB's and PDDC) - I had a blast with the turbo, it was the fastest of the bunch, but a little too fast for this novice (in one turn I had too much speed, thankfully the PASM kept me on the track ). Just mash down the peddle, and hold on!

The Panameras drove like a Carrera, driving it seemed effortless, and I felt like I mastered the car after just a few turns. The rest felt like big four door sedans, probably fine for highway driving. We spent about six laps in each car, and the Porsche's handling and drive were distinctly better then all other cars. I know it might sound biased, but it's incredibly obvious after you drive them. I don't mean to disrespect any vehicle above, they were all great in their own way.....but the Panamera had a significant advantage on the track.

I'll post some photos soon.

 

wow man sounds like you had a blast

i dont think the s6 is underpowered maybe just they drove some twin turbo v8 prior to driving it lol

 

Thanks, Ric for sharring with us such a great experience !

 

Thanks for the great review, but I doubt that owners will take their panamera to the track as most should also have a sport car in their garage.

 

that is a great review. thanks

 

Some pictures of the Autocross:

 

Panamera Cut-Away Model:

 

The Road Trip:

 

thanks Ric, you helped us out alot, i heard that they were doing this from my guys over at PePe Porsche, seems like you had a blast, too bad you didn't get a chance to test the amg 63, that things a beast....
Ron.....

 

Tim,
You're right, I'm sure most Panamera's won't step near a track...........but it could, and it would do well. After the track session we went on a long road trip through the desert. It was a great opportunity to open-up the cars, and just to test the comfort of an extended drive. There were about 12 Panameras in the row, an instructor in the front and rear (each in a brown Turbo). Then about 10 Panamera S's between the instructors, and our employee vehicles were in Silver. As you can imagine, there were moments when the spacing widened, or when we had to "hurry" through an intersection or stop sign. The Panamera was very willing to comply and stable in all conditions, it was a blast to drive. Also had the chance to play with the electronic toys, comfort settings, navigation, etc.. With the XM option, you can check your stocks, weather forcast, traffic congestion, accidents, favorite sports games, etc.. Plenty of goodies to entertain a busy professional traveler.

This was my first time in the Western US, and the landscape was very barren, but absolutely gorgeous. I highly recommend visiting!

 

Why didnt you hit me up for a beer!!!

 

Thanks for the post.....too bad the m5 was out, i would liked to have heard your take on that one.....love the cutaway.

 

Lucky dog. Phoenix is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. Perfect weather to let those turbos loose!

 

That cutaway car is very cool/Sad...

 

Ya.......seems like a waste. It didn't drive either, it has to be pushed around. They were proud of all of the lightweight materials used on the car, magnesium, aluminum, etc..

Mike, we should have met up! We were pretty busy though. You could have met us at the casino, we were there about an hour, and dontated as much as we could.