The Porsche Panamera G1 S 4.8 V8 (400 hp) represents Porsche’s initial foray into the luxury four-door grand touring segment. Introduced in 2009 and continuing through the 2013 model year, this variant was a key component of the first-generation Panamera (G1) lineup, built on the Porsche New Generation Platform. It aimed to deliver the performance and driving experience expected of a Porsche, packaged within a more practical and spacious body style than the traditional 911. The S 4.8 V8 model positioned itself as the performance-oriented entry point into the Panamera range, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the base model, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance Turbo variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Panamera |
| Generation | Panamera (G1) |
| Type (Engine) | S 4.8 V8 (400 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 18.8 l/100 km (12.5 US mpg, 15 UK mpg, 5.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 293 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 226 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 282.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 3500-5000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4820, 4840 |
| Engine displacement | 4806 cm3 (293.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1250 l (44.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4970 mm (195.67 in.) |
| Width | 1913 mm (75.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2114 mm (83.23 in.) |
| Height | 1418 mm (55.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1656 mm (65.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/50R18 Rear wheel tires: 275/45R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Panamera S 4.8 V8 lies Porsche’s naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the M117.30. This engine is a direct-injection powerplant, utilizing a multi-port fuel injection system to deliver fuel directly into the combustion chambers. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power and efficiency. The engine’s architecture is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a direct connection between the engine and the drivetrain. This configuration allowed for precise control and a more engaging driving experience. The engine produced 400 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 368 lb-ft of torque between 3,500 and 5,000 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 offered a compelling blend of performance and comfort. The naturally aspirated V8 delivered smooth, linear power delivery, making it well-suited for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. While not as brutally quick as the Turbo models, the S 4.8 V8 still provided impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband, while the rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced and engaging driving experience. Compared to the base Panamera, the S 4.8 V8 offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it lacked the all-wheel-drive stability and outright speed of the Turbo variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and a premium audio system. Standard exterior features included 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included adaptive air suspension, heated and ventilated front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a variety of interior trim options. The interior design was focused on luxury and functionality, with a driver-centric cockpit and a spacious rear cabin. The liftback design provided excellent cargo versatility, with a minimum of 15.72 cubic feet of storage space expanding to 44.14 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 featured a sophisticated chassis designed to deliver both comfort and handling precision. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provided excellent ride quality and precise control. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The steering system utilized a rack-and-pinion setup, offering responsive and accurate steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted its relatively high price and complex infotainment system. Compared to other luxury sedans in its class, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Panamera offered a more engaging driving experience but lacked the same level of traditional luxury. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 18.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electronic components.
Legacy
The Porsche Panamera S 4.8 V8 remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market today. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality has made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The naturally aspirated V8 engine is known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, the Panamera S 4.8 V8 offers a unique driving experience that continues to appeal to Porsche enthusiasts. The G1 generation Panamera, and particularly the S 4.8 V8 variant, established Porsche as a serious contender in the luxury grand touring segment, paving the way for the continued success of the Panamera model line.
