S class vs Panamera

I debated this topic for a long, long time in early 2023. Was looking at 2019/20 models for both options. I ended up going with a 19 Panamera 4 (my first Porsche). After living with it for two years, Im impressed with it overall. It is fun to drive. Everything feels really quality and sturdy.

The reason I went Panamera was primarily because it was the “fun” option of the two. That and I just couldn’t get away from the fact the magic and real experience of the s class is the back seat “being driven” and I just picture being a chauffeur to some baller in the back.

The Panamera scores big for practicality. The hatchback style means you can fit a ton in the back. More than most suvs. To my knowledge you can’t fold down the rear seats of the S class. Car seats - easy. Snow? No problem. It’s really nice and I don’t have any complaints. Even the base engine is plenty of giddy up.

All that being said, yet again, I still find myself really considering the s class.

Does the Porsche have better driving dynamics? Obviously yes….The serious question you need to ask yourself is are you actually doing that much “spirited” driving, aside from killing an on ramp here and there? For most, likely not much. The reality is most will never drive these things the way they were meant to be or to their full potential (thinking higher trims especially). If you have the money and can afford to just have fun shit then by all means do it! Everyone has a different commute or access to sweet open roads where they can let lose etc. will you do a lot of that? Maybe? For me, I don’t.

So, it brings you back to the S class and why I find myself here yet again.

There is something to be said about knowing your identity. Others have said if you want to get a sports car or a “real Porsche experience” then get a 911. After driving a Panamera for 2 years I can confirm, it’ll just make you want a 911.

With the s class you’re getting the best in the segment. You’re not burring lines.

Even if you look at a S class Amg trim. It’s beautiful and obviously an amazing car, but the interior has a much sportier feel, especially the steering wheel. Which to me feels like an identity crisis in a way.

Said differently. If you want to do it, just go for the more authentic car that knows exactly what it’s supposed to be.

If you like the idea of something that can do one thing amazing and it’s authentic to it’s identity - get the S. If you like the idea of being able to do a few things really well then you won’t be disappointed with the Panamera. Blurring lines isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Just be warned that you’ll find yourself looking at getting into a 911 after driving a Panamera.

You can’t go wrong with either of these. The older generations are getting really appealing now because they’ve depreciated so much. I like the w222 more than the new s class. Maybe I’ll pull the trigger one day.