The Porsche Panamera G1 S 4.8 V8 (400 Hp) PDK, produced from 2009 to 2013, represents Porsche’s initial foray into the luxury four-door grand touring segment. This variant occupied a significant position within the first-generation Panamera (G1) lineup, serving as a performance-oriented model bridging the gap between the base Panamera and the more potent Turbo variants. Built on the Porsche New Generation Platform (NGP), shared with the Cayenne and Audi Q7, the G1 Panamera aimed to deliver the driving experience expected of a Porsche, but with the practicality of a larger, more accommodating vehicle. The “S” designation indicated a step up in performance from the base model, while the 4.8 V8 engine and Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission signified a focus on dynamic driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | Panamera |
| Generation | Panamera (G1) |
| Type (Engine) | S 4.8 V8 (400 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 247 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 283 km/h (175.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 222.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 277.8 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 | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2405 kg (5302.12 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 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| 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 PDK lies Porsche’s naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the M117.30. This engine features a 90-degree V-angle, contributing to a smooth and balanced operation. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The high 12.5:1 compression ratio further enhances performance. The engine produces 400 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 3,500 and 5,000 rpm. This power is delivered to the rear wheels via Porsche’s seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. The PDK offers both fully automatic shifting and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience. The transmission’s quick and precise shifts contribute significantly to the car’s acceleration and overall performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 PDK delivers a refined yet sporty driving experience. The naturally aspirated V8 provides a linear power delivery, with strong acceleration throughout the rev range. The PDK transmission complements the engine perfectly, offering seamless gear changes and contributing to a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.1 seconds. While not as brutally fast as the Turbo models, the S variant offers ample power for both comfortable cruising and spirited driving. The suspension, tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, provides a stable and controlled ride. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. Compared to the base Panamera, the S model offers a noticeable improvement in performance, while the PDK transmission provides a more engaging and responsive driving experience than the standard eight-speed automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 PDK came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a Bose audio system, a navigation system, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The liftback body style provided generous cargo space, enhancing the car’s practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 PDK features a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, offering strong stopping power. The front brakes measure 360mm in diameter, while the rear brakes are 330mm. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The chassis is designed to provide a balance between rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Panamera S 4.8 V8 PDK was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted the car’s 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. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, with combined fuel consumption of around 22.4 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electronic components.
Legacy
The Porsche Panamera G1 S 4.8 V8 PDK remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The naturally aspirated V8 engine is known for its reliability and smooth operation, and the PDK transmission is generally considered to be robust. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream luxury sedans, the Panamera offers a unique combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. The G1 Panamera established Porsche as a serious contender in the luxury four-door segment, paving the way for subsequent generations of the Panamera.
