C63 vs. Panamera Turbo
05-09-2011, 06:57 AM
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'11 C63, '22 GLS 63, Porsches, M3, M4
C63 vs. Panamera Turbo
When I was looking for a new car a few months ago, one of my top contenders was the Panamera, in both the base and S versions, though I wound up getting the C63. Several weeks ago, my brother in law got a Panamera Turbo, and I finally had a chance to drive it yesterday (he drove my C63 and I followed him in hot pursuit). So how would you expect the two cars to compare, given that the Panamera Turbo is twice as expensive and its 0-60 has been clocked at about 3.3 s? Here's my comparison:
- The Panamera is undeniably faster in a straight line, and feels like a slingshot off the line when using launch control (almost uncomfortable!). But the C63 is no slouch by comparison.
- In handling, the C63 feels considerably more precise and nimble, and inspires more confidence when pushing it. The Panamera feels considerably bigger and heavier (which it is), though I bet it can put down serious track numbers.
- The Panamera has a considerably smoother ride, while still providing a decent sense of the road. The C63's ride is fine on smooth roads, but can be harsh on rough roads (even without the PP, etc.).
- When optioned out, the Panamera's interior is more extravagent, though the C63's interior is also nice.
- Both of us like the C63's seats better, particular the bolsters, though the Panamera's seats are also comfortable.
- The Panamera has more buttons and technology. This is good if you like that sort of thing, though I prefer simplicity.
- The Panamera's gas mileage is significantly better.
- The C63's sound show is much better (to me). The Panamera has a more refined business-like sound -- good, but not exciting.
- Both cars have a nice steering wheel, though I like the C63's better. And I think the C63 has a little more steering feedback.
- Visibility is better in the C63.
- Needless to say, the Panamera is much flashier. Screams "expensive!" The C63 is almost a sleeper, particulary when not modded.
Overall, the bottom line is that I enjoy driving the C63 more, which is a pleasant surprise!
It's an iron fist in a velvet glove.
And when cost is considered, the C63 really seems like a bargain compared with just about anything else out there.
- The Panamera is undeniably faster in a straight line, and feels like a slingshot off the line when using launch control (almost uncomfortable!). But the C63 is no slouch by comparison.
- In handling, the C63 feels considerably more precise and nimble, and inspires more confidence when pushing it. The Panamera feels considerably bigger and heavier (which it is), though I bet it can put down serious track numbers.
- The Panamera has a considerably smoother ride, while still providing a decent sense of the road. The C63's ride is fine on smooth roads, but can be harsh on rough roads (even without the PP, etc.).
- When optioned out, the Panamera's interior is more extravagent, though the C63's interior is also nice.
- Both of us like the C63's seats better, particular the bolsters, though the Panamera's seats are also comfortable.
- The Panamera has more buttons and technology. This is good if you like that sort of thing, though I prefer simplicity.
- The Panamera's gas mileage is significantly better.
- The C63's sound show is much better (to me). The Panamera has a more refined business-like sound -- good, but not exciting.
- Both cars have a nice steering wheel, though I like the C63's better. And I think the C63 has a little more steering feedback.
- Visibility is better in the C63.
- Needless to say, the Panamera is much flashier. Screams "expensive!" The C63 is almost a sleeper, particulary when not modded.
Overall, the bottom line is that I enjoy driving the C63 more, which is a pleasant surprise!
It's an iron fist in a velvet glove.And when cost is considered, the C63 really seems like a bargain compared with just about anything else out there.
Last edited by IAA-C63; 05-09-2011 at 07:47 AM.
05-09-2011, 07:35 AM
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^^^
Nice comparo...
I believe I'd see it the same way. My main gripe w/the Panamera (Turbo) is that it is just too long/wide, not to mention too expensive (Turbo).
Big Porsche fan, but the Panamera is just too large in my eyes.
Cheers,
BB
Nice comparo...
I believe I'd see it the same way. My main gripe w/the Panamera (Turbo) is that it is just too long/wide, not to mention too expensive (Turbo).
Big Porsche fan, but the Panamera is just too large in my eyes.
Cheers,
BB
05-09-2011, 10:25 AM
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2013 Nissan GT-R BE
Damn, I didn't know that the Panamera Turbo is AWD! I always thought that you can only get AWD with 4 or 4S. Too bad on their pricing, as it will go upward of $200k quick if I want all the options... which I do! Thanks for sharing your personal experience on this.
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05-09-2011, 10:37 AM
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05-09-2011, 11:04 AM
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Did you opt for the performance package on your car or no?
05-09-2011, 11:18 AM
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Good comparison, although i do not fully agree with the statement that a stock C63 is a sleeper 
I prefer the raw design of the c63 any day of the week. Besides i think porsche should stick to small two door sports cars. Same goes for ferrari...
I prefer the raw design of the c63 any day of the week. Besides i think porsche should stick to small two door sports cars. Same goes for ferrari...
05-09-2011, 11:44 AM
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05-09-2011, 04:22 PM
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2021 Taycan Turbo, 2018 Radical SR3, 2021 Lincoln Aviator
Saw a really nice one this morning (black with aftermarket metallic black wheels). Checked online (in my car while it was still there he he ) and it's a 11.7-12.0 1/4 mile car. Since I have a MHP tune now (before and after dyno coming soon), C63 would still be slightly faster.
Great car if it the back wasn't fugly. It's just horrible. Porsche really needs to revise it ASAP. Aside from that, great car!
Great car if it the back wasn't fugly. It's just horrible. Porsche really needs to revise it ASAP. Aside from that, great car!
05-09-2011, 05:25 PM
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'10 Panamera S, '06 AMG CLS55, '07 Miata MX5, '02 MB SPRINTER, '99 Spec Miata Race Car (2X)
Hi guys
Here is some feedback on the OP’s original question that either has a lot to do with the thread or none at all, depending on your viewpoint
In 2006 I bought a CLS55 (not C63). I bought it because of performance and especially because of looks. Absolutely loved the vehicle, still is a stunner to this day, great performer, not quite as fast as my E55, but way better looking. Did miss the rear seating space of the E55.
Last year, after 4 years of thrilling ownership, it came time to sell the CLS, and in late 2011 I did not want to get an E63 or a CLS63 as I knew the twin turbo was on its way.
I wanted a change, so I bought the Panamera S (not the Turbo) despite the performance loss and despite the ugliness factor (which I found pretty repulsive at first. Unfortunately I couldn’t quite justify the extra $30-$50k for the Turbo. The Panny S cost the same as my CLS55, just north of $100K
So here are my observations after 6 months of ownership
The Panny is much larger inside than the E and CLS, and is similarly appointed and possibly a bit more refined. Command, navigation and Bluetooth is better than my AMG. Ride is firm yet plush, and interior silence is as good or better than the AMG. Buttons and controls are intuitive but I HATE the Tiptronic buttons on the steering wheel (up and down shift both sides) and I hate the counterintuitive center-console shift direction. Forward to up shift and backwards to downshift.
As everyone has mentioned the Panny rear view was difficult to stomach at first, but just as others have mentioned, I am growing to like it (but it’s got nothing on the stunning lines of the CLS). The front views are nice, and I have the 20” Turbo wheels that makes it look more sporty.
The performance of the Panny V8 is disappointing, but then most engines are when comparing to a supercharged V8 and living in Florida. All stop start, no twisties, where Torque is king. As with NA cars the car needs to get into the upper RPM’s to get the real area under the curve. Here in Florida you are at the next light before that happens. 550ftlbs of torque at 1,500rpm is a difficult habit to give up
One serious flaw is the exhaust note on the Panny. It is way too quiet and doesn’t give you any hint of the cars performance (the exhaust note of the C63 is the best by far IMHO!)
The suspension is great in sport 2 mode, but is too soft in normal mode and really porpoises over speed humps. Very unpleasant.
Overall I like the Panny more and more as I spend more time in it. Initially I really missed my AMG’s but now I have grown to like it and I suspect I will enjoy it more with time.
But if I had the money today I would had a really difficult time choosing between the 2012 CLS63 Twin Turbo and the Panny Twin Turbo
Here is some feedback on the OP’s original question that either has a lot to do with the thread or none at all, depending on your viewpoint
In 2006 I bought a CLS55 (not C63). I bought it because of performance and especially because of looks. Absolutely loved the vehicle, still is a stunner to this day, great performer, not quite as fast as my E55, but way better looking. Did miss the rear seating space of the E55.
Last year, after 4 years of thrilling ownership, it came time to sell the CLS, and in late 2011 I did not want to get an E63 or a CLS63 as I knew the twin turbo was on its way.
I wanted a change, so I bought the Panamera S (not the Turbo) despite the performance loss and despite the ugliness factor (which I found pretty repulsive at first. Unfortunately I couldn’t quite justify the extra $30-$50k for the Turbo. The Panny S cost the same as my CLS55, just north of $100K
So here are my observations after 6 months of ownership
The Panny is much larger inside than the E and CLS, and is similarly appointed and possibly a bit more refined. Command, navigation and Bluetooth is better than my AMG. Ride is firm yet plush, and interior silence is as good or better than the AMG. Buttons and controls are intuitive but I HATE the Tiptronic buttons on the steering wheel (up and down shift both sides) and I hate the counterintuitive center-console shift direction. Forward to up shift and backwards to downshift.
As everyone has mentioned the Panny rear view was difficult to stomach at first, but just as others have mentioned, I am growing to like it (but it’s got nothing on the stunning lines of the CLS). The front views are nice, and I have the 20” Turbo wheels that makes it look more sporty.
The performance of the Panny V8 is disappointing, but then most engines are when comparing to a supercharged V8 and living in Florida. All stop start, no twisties, where Torque is king. As with NA cars the car needs to get into the upper RPM’s to get the real area under the curve. Here in Florida you are at the next light before that happens. 550ftlbs of torque at 1,500rpm is a difficult habit to give up
One serious flaw is the exhaust note on the Panny. It is way too quiet and doesn’t give you any hint of the cars performance (the exhaust note of the C63 is the best by far IMHO!)
The suspension is great in sport 2 mode, but is too soft in normal mode and really porpoises over speed humps. Very unpleasant.
Overall I like the Panny more and more as I spend more time in it. Initially I really missed my AMG’s but now I have grown to like it and I suspect I will enjoy it more with time.
But if I had the money today I would had a really difficult time choosing between the 2012 CLS63 Twin Turbo and the Panny Twin Turbo
05-09-2011, 05:37 PM
#17
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Hi guys
Here is some feedback on the OP’s original question that either has a lot to do with the thread or none at all, depending on your viewpoint
In 2006 I bought a CLS55 (not C63). I bought it because of performance and especially because of looks. Absolutely loved the vehicle, still is a stunner to this day, great performer, not quite as fast as my E55, but way better looking. Did miss the rear seating space of the E55.
Last year, after 4 years of thrilling ownership, it came time to sell the CLS, and in late 2011 I did not want to get an E63 or a CLS63 as I knew the twin turbo was on its way.
I wanted a change, so I bought the Panamera S (not the Turbo) despite the performance loss and despite the ugliness factor (which I found pretty repulsive at first. Unfortunately I couldn’t quite justify the extra $30-$50k for the Turbo. The Panny S cost the same as my CLS55, just north of $100K
So here are my observations after 6 months of ownership
The Panny is much larger inside than the E and CLS, and is similarly appointed and possibly a bit more refined. Command, navigation and Bluetooth is better than my AMG. Ride is firm yet plush, and interior silence is as good or better than the AMG. Buttons and controls are intuitive but I HATE the Tiptronic buttons on the steering wheel (up and down shift both sides) and I hate the counterintuitive center-console shift direction. Forward to up shift and backwards to downshift.
As everyone has mentioned the Panny rear view was difficult to stomach at first, but just as others have mentioned, I am growing to like it (but it’s got nothing on the stunning lines of the CLS). The front views are nice, and I have the 20” Turbo wheels that makes it look more sporty.
The performance of the Panny V8 is disappointing, but then most engines are when comparing to a supercharged V8 and living in Florida. All stop start, no twisties, where Torque is king. As with NA cars the car needs to get into the upper RPM’s to get the real area under the curve. Here in Florida you are at the next light before that happens. 550ftlbs of torque at 1,500rpm is a difficult habit to give up
One serious flaw is the exhaust note on the Panny. It is way too quiet and doesn’t give you any hint of the cars performance (the exhaust note of the C63 is the best by far IMHO!)
The suspension is great in sport 2 mode, but is too soft in normal mode and really porpoises over speed humps. Very unpleasant.
Overall I like the Panny more and more as I spend more time in it. Initially I really missed my AMG’s but now I have grown to like it and I suspect I will enjoy it more with time.
But if I had the money today I would had a really difficult time choosing between the 2012 CLS63 Twin Turbo and the Panny Twin Turbo
Here is some feedback on the OP’s original question that either has a lot to do with the thread or none at all, depending on your viewpoint
In 2006 I bought a CLS55 (not C63). I bought it because of performance and especially because of looks. Absolutely loved the vehicle, still is a stunner to this day, great performer, not quite as fast as my E55, but way better looking. Did miss the rear seating space of the E55.
Last year, after 4 years of thrilling ownership, it came time to sell the CLS, and in late 2011 I did not want to get an E63 or a CLS63 as I knew the twin turbo was on its way.
I wanted a change, so I bought the Panamera S (not the Turbo) despite the performance loss and despite the ugliness factor (which I found pretty repulsive at first. Unfortunately I couldn’t quite justify the extra $30-$50k for the Turbo. The Panny S cost the same as my CLS55, just north of $100K
So here are my observations after 6 months of ownership
The Panny is much larger inside than the E and CLS, and is similarly appointed and possibly a bit more refined. Command, navigation and Bluetooth is better than my AMG. Ride is firm yet plush, and interior silence is as good or better than the AMG. Buttons and controls are intuitive but I HATE the Tiptronic buttons on the steering wheel (up and down shift both sides) and I hate the counterintuitive center-console shift direction. Forward to up shift and backwards to downshift.
As everyone has mentioned the Panny rear view was difficult to stomach at first, but just as others have mentioned, I am growing to like it (but it’s got nothing on the stunning lines of the CLS). The front views are nice, and I have the 20” Turbo wheels that makes it look more sporty.
The performance of the Panny V8 is disappointing, but then most engines are when comparing to a supercharged V8 and living in Florida. All stop start, no twisties, where Torque is king. As with NA cars the car needs to get into the upper RPM’s to get the real area under the curve. Here in Florida you are at the next light before that happens. 550ftlbs of torque at 1,500rpm is a difficult habit to give up
One serious flaw is the exhaust note on the Panny. It is way too quiet and doesn’t give you any hint of the cars performance (the exhaust note of the C63 is the best by far IMHO!)
The suspension is great in sport 2 mode, but is too soft in normal mode and really porpoises over speed humps. Very unpleasant.
Overall I like the Panny more and more as I spend more time in it. Initially I really missed my AMG’s but now I have grown to like it and I suspect I will enjoy it more with time.
But if I had the money today I would had a really difficult time choosing between the 2012 CLS63 Twin Turbo and the Panny Twin Turbo
05-09-2011, 06:04 PM
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'11 C63, '22 GLS 63, Porsches, M3, M4
I basically just took the car the dealer had in stock. Test drove it one day, and drove it home the next day.
05-09-2011, 06:19 PM
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'11 C63, '22 GLS 63, Porsches, M3, M4
The AWD is definitely a plus, and I suspect that it really helps the Panamera lauch off the line.
And I agree that the size/width of the Panamera has its own appeal. The car feels big (bigger than an E class, but maybe not quite an S class), yet handles surprisingly for its size.
Also, as far as looks, I was initially turned off by the rear end, but it's gradually grown on me, and now I actually love the overall look of the car. But, again, it's pretty flashy, which is an issue for some people (including me).
Also, someone mentioned a cost of about $200K. A well-equipped Panamera Turbo is closer to $150K. And believe it or not, my brother in law got a new 2010 with essentially zero miles for $115K. Heck of a deal!
05-09-2011, 06:43 PM
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2020 Audi R8 V10, 2016 AMG GTS, 2018 E63S Edition 1, 2018 Porsche GTS Cab, 2012 C63 BS
The exterior looks of the car are definitely subjective (Pan TT) but like a choice few here, they are growing on me in the positive. The interior is excellent and the performance numbers are tops for a stock sedan.
Price is another story but not for all.
Some mag stats... if you like that sort of stuff
Road and Track:
Price is another story but not for all.
Some mag stats... if you like that sort of stuff
Road and Track:
05-09-2011, 06:56 PM
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'15 E63S wagon
The Panamera Turbo is a 4dr supercar on a completely different playing field than the C63. The C63 is half the price, not quite apples to oranges comparison nor is it the same buyer demographic IMO.
BTW this:
This is exactly what all of the Cadillac CTS-V owners say. Can't be both...
BTW this:
And when cost is considered, the C63 really seems like a bargain compared with just about anything else out there.
05-09-2011, 07:24 PM
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'11 C63, '22 GLS 63, Porsches, M3, M4
The Panamera Turbo is a 4dr supercar on a completely different playing field than the C63. The C63 is half the price, not quite apples to oranges comparison nor is it the same buyer demographic IMO.
BTW this:
This is exactly what all of the Cadillac CTS-V owners say. Can't be both...
BTW this:
This is exactly what all of the Cadillac CTS-V owners say. Can't be both...
If price is factored in, a base Panamera without many options would be a closer comparison to the C63. In that comparo, the performance of the C63 seems much superior, though even the base Panamera is still a great car (even if not a super car).
As far as the CTS-V, I won't deny its value, but I can't wrap my mind around personally driving one. Maybe if I was older ...
05-09-2011, 08:34 PM
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08 C63, 07 ML63, 92 500E, 70 300SEL 6.3, 63 220 SEB Conv. Sold 02 G500, 97 E50,92 C280,71 280SE 4.5
Though the Panamera may be better than the C63 Except in looks (don't think the Panamera is better looking than anything out there today) I think the 60K extra USD in ones pocket would be a compelling reason to choose the C63.
Now if the decision is a "cost no object" one? and you can get past the Panamera's very un-Porsche like size and Looks, then I guess the Panamera Turbo would be the Choice.
Now if the decision is a "cost no object" one? and you can get past the Panamera's very un-Porsche like size and Looks, then I guess the Panamera Turbo would be the Choice.
