Decided on a Panamera GTS

mdh · 01-09-2012, 07:59 PM

Well, it is with mixed feelings that I've made the decision to purchase a Panamera GTS instead of what will truly be a great car, the F10 M5. It was a very tough decision, but the main reason was that I was looking for something just a bit different than the M5. The fact that the US M5 production has been put off until July with an August/Sept delivery played a part as well.

To explain, I've had my E60 M5 for 5 years, and almost 130,000 miles. It was the first of two in Ohio, and I just couldn't get enough time in the car. Of course I started modding the car almost immediately - exhaust, intake, suspension, pulley, wheels and tires, differential, and of course two radar detectors and a 4 unit laser jammer (saved me a bunch of times over 90 mph). Ran the car dozens of times at the dragstrip, and on the track. Hit an indicated 160 mph on the back straight at Mid Ohio. Then I got more serious about tracking and bought a Porsche just for the track, got certified as a Porsche instructor, then bought a full-out race car and went racing.

It was a blast with the E60, being 'king of the highway' (for a while anyways), and I'd still be driving it if it didn't start to show it's age with a $3,000 plus repair estimate last week. So, my choice was to trade it in at the BMW dealer, where I was first on the list for the new M5, or to trade it in for the Panamera GTS.

I picked the GTS for a few reasons - I don't need a 560 HP car on the street - I get plenty of thrills on the track. The awd is a big plus for someone who drives to Cleveland and Chicago a lot. Finally, the GTS gave me everything I was looking for in the Panamera - the response of a n.a. engine, awd, and a more sport-oriented suspension and engine sound. Overall the best 'driver's car' in the lineup. Plus, I got a great deal, 6% off MSRP on the first ordered GTS and a lifetime guarantee on the engine and drivetrain.

The M5 will be one of the great cars for sure and I'll still hang out here and live vicariously though the reviews and experiences. Hopefully I'll get to drive one in the near future.

uhn2000 · 01-09-2012, 08:30 PM

I had the same choice to make and put my deposit on the M5. The Panamera has presence but after driving both I can tell you that the M5 just has so much more soul and that hooligan effect that is missing in the the Porsche 4S. I am also not sure how your pricing came out on the GTS but dollar for dollar the M5 is also amazing value. I had the e60 and hated the SMG so dumped it for the Targa4s. Long story short I am so happy that BMW is releasing a 6MT of the F10 and look forward to owning one at the end of the year. Best of luck on your order the Panamera is a win but BMW F10 M5 is the sexiest looking 4 door sedan on the road (sorry).

One thing about Ms is that once you have owned one you just keep dreaming about the next one. For me atleast.

GT3 RSR · 01-09-2012, 08:51 PM

I didn't realize the GTS has 4wheel drive. I like your style. NA engines are better, and 560hp is overkill. I want an agile sedan!

mdh · 01-09-2012, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by uhn2000

I had the same choice to make and put my deposit on the M5. The Panamera has presence but after driving both I can tell you that the M5 just has so much more soul and that hooligan effect that is missing in the the Porsche 4S. I am also not sure how your pricing came out on the GTS but dollar for dollar the M5 is also amazing value. I had the e60 and hated the SMG so dumped it for the Targa4s. Long story short I am so happy that BMW is releasing a 6MT of the F10 and look forward to owning one at the end of the year. Best of luck on your order the Panamera is a win but BMW F10 M5 is the sexiest looking 4 door sedan on the road (sorry).

One thing about Ms is that once you have owned one you just keep dreaming about the next one. For me atleast.

No doubt you get more for your money with the M5. Aside from the AWD, the F10 M5 matches up pretty well against the Panny Turbo S in just about everything. I was just looking for more of a 'scalpel' than an axe...

uhn2000 · 01-09-2012, 10:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdh

No doubt you get more for your money with the M5. Aside from the AWD, the F10 M5 matches up pretty well against the Panny Turbo S in just about everything. I was just looking for more of a 'scalpel' than an axe...

Frankly Porsche made it easy for me (Panamera in Pdk only). I am desperately holding onto the idea of keeping a 6MT in the garage and BMW ///M answered the call. The 4WD has been nice in the snow but I guess you can't have it all! The M5 will be a nice welcome I miss having 4 doors, 11 more months. Having the Cayenne I was less inclined to go Porsche again (very similar) and like you wanted something different. Look forward to your review one day.

singularity · 01-09-2012, 11:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdh

Finally, the GTS gave me everything I was looking for in the Panamera - the response of a n.a. engine, awd, and a more sport-oriented suspension and engine sound. Overall the best 'driver's car' in the lineup.

I bought a house last week, I found it to be much more comfortable to live in than an M5. What is the point of this sensual dramatic post?

Fester · 05-26-2012, 09:42 PM

mdh...I'm kind of torn between the normally aspirated engine with 4wd and monstrous exhaust sounds, unique looks vs F10 M5, which kind of looks the same as 528i...but is much more practical with measely 4 seats in huge panamera.. Please post pics!!

TheRox · 05-26-2012, 10:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fester

mdh...I'm kind of torn between the normally aspirated engine with 4wd and monstrous exhaust sounds, unique looks vs F10 M5, which kind of looks the same as 528i...but is much more practical with measely 4 seats in huge panamera.. Please post pics!!

?? 5 series is effectively a four seater, the middle seat is not useful for adults.

secondly, the panamera's rear seats are better than any 5 series rear bench seats. The only seats that can match the Panamera's rear seats are the 7series and S class' special power adjustable rear buckets style comfort seats. A very expensive option.

Panamera is much more a sporting car than the 5. But it is wide and you will notice that in relation to the 5.

M5 is good value...Porsche is porsche. Its a big premium and a very personal decision.

I think M5 is good value if you can do without the attention the Panamera delivers; but it is an expensive 5 series and isn't as exciting to look at as a Porsche...esp the new facelifted Panamera (hopefully). With the facelift around the corner, rumour has it the Panamera will look a little more elegant. Thought its shock factor is where a lot of those looks come in.

Fedemol · 05-26-2012, 10:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdh

Well, it is with mixed feelings that I've made the decision to purchase a Panamera GTS instead of what will truly be a great car, the F10 M5. It was a very tough decision, but the main reason was that I was looking for something just a bit different than the M5. The fact that the US M5 production has been put off until July with an August/Sept delivery played a part as well.

To explain, I've had my E60 M5 for 5 years, and almost 130,000 miles. It was the first of two in Ohio, and I just couldn't get enough time in the car. Of course I started modding the car almost immediately - exhaust, intake, suspension, pulley, wheels and tires, differential, and of course two radar detectors and a 4 unit laser jammer (saved me a bunch of times over 90 mph). Ran the car dozens of times at the dragstrip, and on the track. Hit an indicated 160 mph on the back straight at Mid Ohio. Then I got more serious about tracking and bought a Porsche just for the track, got certified as a Porsche instructor, then bought a full-out race car and went racing.

It was a blast with the E60, being 'king of the highway' (for a while anyways), and I'd still be driving it if it didn't start to show it's age with a $3,000 plus repair estimate last week. So, my choice was to trade it in at the BMW dealer, where I was first on the list for the new M5, or to trade it in for the Panamera GTS.

I picked the GTS for a few reasons - I don't need a 560 HP car on the street - I get plenty of thrills on the track. The awd is a big plus for someone who drives to Cleveland and Chicago a lot. Finally, the GTS gave me everything I was looking for in the Panamera - the response of a n.a. engine, awd, and a more sport-oriented suspension and engine sound. Overall the best 'driver's car' in the lineup. Plus, I got a great deal, 6% off MSRP on the first ordered GTS and a lifetime guarantee on the engine and drivetrain.

The M5 will be one of the great cars for sure and I'll still hang out here and live vicariously though the reviews and experiences. Hopefully I'll get to drive one in the near future.

And who cares about the Panamera, you can read here M5 Post. If you want write the amazing comments about the Panamera you can go to Panamera’s Forum.

His attitude is annoying.

mhh · 05-26-2012, 11:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fedemol

And who cares about the Panamera, you can read here M5 Post. If you want write the amazing comments about the Panamera you can go to Panamera’s Forum.

His attitude is annoying.

Why open the thread then? The content was pretty clear from the title.

I was interested to read it. Thanks OP and best of luck with the Porsche.

Fester · 05-27-2012, 12:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheRox

?? 5 series is effectively a four seater, the middle seat is not useful for adults.

secondly, the panamera's rear seats are better than any 5 series rear bench seats. The only seats that can match the Panamera's rear seats are the 7series and S class' special power adjustable rear buckets style comfort seats. A very expensive option.

Panamera is much more a sporting car than the 5. But it is wide and you will notice that in relation to the 5.

M5 is good value...Porsche is porsche. Its a big premium and a very personal decision.

I think M5 is good value if you can do without the attention the Panamera delivers; but it is an expensive 5 series and isn't as exciting to look at as a Porsche...esp the new facelifted Panamera (hopefully). With the facelift around the corner, rumour has it the Panamera will look a little more elegant. Thought its shock factor is where a lot of those looks come in.

I agree about Porsche...my wife just can't get over the fact that such a humongous car has 4 seats...lol...and I've got to
Listen to her. On the other hand, I want a change from
the turbo rear wheel drive bimmer...my budget is ok to go higher than $100K to $140Kish...with 4 family members and occasionally a visitor we then have to fit in an suv, though everyone would rather sit in the new car.....

clar · 05-27-2012, 01:45 AM

Not sure why the hate against the OP for his choice. His reasons are rather valid for his cause and I don't see why any M5 fans should be up in arms over it. If not for the fact that the Pana only seats 4 and is so hideously ugly, it would be a viable option for me too. If i were to get a Pana, i would similarly give the turbos a miss and go for the GTS.

phish_100 · 05-27-2012, 04:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by clar

Not sure why the hate against the OP for his choice. His reasons are rather valid for his cause and I don't see why any M5 fans should be up in arms over it. If not for the fact that the Pana only seats 4 and is so hideously ugly, it would be a viable option for me too. If i were to get a Pana, i would similarly give the turbos a miss and go for the GTS.

Great back handed compliment there :-)

clar · 05-27-2012, 05:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by phish_100

Great back handed compliment there :-)

It wasn't meant to be one, Phish

I respect the OP's reasoning and i agree with his points. It's just that i really can't stand how the car looks...makes me writhe in agony every time i lay my eyes on one...

cpiguy · 05-27-2012, 09:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by clar

It wasn't meant to be one, Phish

I respect the OP's reasoning and i agree with his points. It's just that i really can't stand how the car looks...makes me writhe in agony every time i lay my eyes on one...

Totally agree.

MiamiSixer · 05-27-2012, 09:55 AM

Different cars for different people; I drove the Panamera but it didn't do it for me, sure it looks different but in the end the M5 is waayy better. Perhaps if we were talking about a fully loaded Turbo they might be in the same league.

Needsdecaf · 05-27-2012, 10:19 AM

Some ridiculously negative reactions here.

To the OP...enjoy, it is a great car.

Fester · 05-27-2012, 01:34 PM

I love pana shape... And love how gts looks with front facia same as tubo/turboS and rear spoiler same as well but naturally aspirated engine ..it's a great car indeed!

01-09-2012, 07:59 PM	#1
mdh Private First Class 8 Rep 139 Posts Drives: E60 M5 Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Midwest iTrader: (0)	Decided on a Panamera GTS Well, it is with mixed feelings that I've made the decision to purchase a Panamera GTS instead of what will truly be a great car, the F10 M5. It was a very tough decision, but the main reason was that I was looking for something just a bit different than the M5. The fact that the US M5 production has been put off until July with an August/Sept delivery played a part as well. To explain, I've had my E60 M5 for 5 years, and almost 130,000 miles. It was the first of two in Ohio, and I just couldn't get enough time in the car. Of course I started modding the car almost immediately - exhaust, intake, suspension, pulley, wheels and tires, differential, and of course two radar detectors and a 4 unit laser jammer (saved me a bunch of times over 90 mph). Ran the car dozens of times at the dragstrip, and on the track. Hit an indicated 160 mph on the back straight at Mid Ohio. Then I got more serious about tracking and bought a Porsche just for the track, got certified as a Porsche instructor, then bought a full-out race car and went racing. It was a blast with the E60, being 'king of the highway' (for a while anyways), and I'd still be driving it if it didn't start to show it's age with a $3,000 plus repair estimate last week. So, my choice was to trade it in at the BMW dealer, where I was first on the list for the new M5, or to trade it in for the Panamera GTS. I picked the GTS for a few reasons - I don't need a 560 HP car on the street - I get plenty of thrills on the track. The awd is a big plus for someone who drives to Cleveland and Chicago a lot. Finally, the GTS gave me everything I was looking for in the Panamera - the response of a n.a. engine, awd, and a more sport-oriented suspension and engine sound. Overall the best 'driver's car' in the lineup. Plus, I got a great deal, 6% off MSRP on the first ordered GTS and a lifetime guarantee on the engine and drivetrain. The M5 will be one of the great cars for sure and I'll still hang out here and live vicariously though the reviews and experiences. Hopefully I'll get to drive one in the near future.
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01-09-2012, 08:30 PM	#2
uhn2000 Big K... 173 Rep 1,717 Posts Drives: M3CS BX7 Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Toronto, Ontario iTrader: (0)	I had the same choice to make and put my deposit on the M5. The Panamera has presence but after driving both I can tell you that the M5 just has so much more soul and that hooligan effect that is missing in the the Porsche 4S. I am also not sure how your pricing came out on the GTS but dollar for dollar the M5 is also amazing value. I had the e60 and hated the SMG so dumped it for the Targa4s. Long story short I am so happy that BMW is releasing a 6MT of the F10 and look forward to owning one at the end of the year. Best of luck on your order the Panamera is a win but BMW F10 M5 is the sexiest looking 4 door sedan on the road (sorry). One thing about Ms is that once you have owned one you just keep dreaming about the next one. For me atleast. __________________ Many fun toys... M3CS XB7 FTW!
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01-09-2012, 08:51 PM	#3
GT3 RSR New Member 2 Rep 20 Posts Drives: 911 GT3 RS Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Passing you on the right iTrader: (0)	I didn't realize the GTS has 4wheel drive. I like your style. NA engines are better, and 560hp is overkill. I want an agile sedan!
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05-26-2012, 09:42 PM	#7
Fester Major 27 Rep 1,129 Posts Drives: '13 Porsche 911 (991) 4S Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Silicon Valley, CA iTrader: (0)	mdh...I'm kind of torn between the normally aspirated engine with 4wd and monstrous exhaust sounds, unique looks vs F10 M5, which kind of looks the same as 528i...but is much more practical with measely 4 seats in huge panamera.. Please post pics!! __________________ 2013 911 4S ...GT Silver/Espresso custom build w/ lots of options and all alphabets soup! 2007 335i Coupe ...TiAg/Grey custom build...Sold!
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05-27-2012, 01:45 AM	#12
clar Major 144 Rep 1,440 Posts Drives: M5 Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Singapore iTrader: (0)	Not sure why the hate against the OP for his choice. His reasons are rather valid for his cause and I don't see why any M5 fans should be up in arms over it. If not for the fact that the Pana only seats 4 and is so hideously ugly, it would be a viable option for me too. If i were to get a Pana, i would similarly give the turbos a miss and go for the GTS. __________________ - Frozen Grey F10 M5 DCT - Rosso Corsa 458 Speciale Sold - Frozen Grey E92 M3 Sold
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05-27-2012, 09:55 AM	#16
MiamiSixer New Member 0 Rep 16 Posts Drives: F13 M6 Alpine/Sakhir On Order Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Miami iTrader: (0)	Different cars for different people; I drove the Panamera but it didn't do it for me, sure it looks different but in the end the M5 is waayy better. Perhaps if we were talking about a fully loaded Turbo they might be in the same league.
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05-27-2012, 10:19 AM	#17
Needsdecaf Major General 6589 Rep 6,691 Posts Drives: 2024 G80 Comp xDrive Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: The Woodlands, TX iTrader: (0)	Some ridiculously negative reactions here. To the OP...enjoy, it is a great car.
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05-27-2012, 01:34 PM	#18
Fester Major 27 Rep 1,129 Posts Drives: '13 Porsche 911 (991) 4S Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Silicon Valley, CA iTrader: (0)	I love pana shape... And love how gts looks with front facia same as tubo/turboS and rear spoiler same as well but naturally aspirated engine ..it's a great car indeed! __________________ 2013 911 4S ...GT Silver/Espresso custom build w/ lots of options and all alphabets soup! 2007 335i Coupe ...TiAg/Grey custom build...Sold!
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