Porsche drivers can be very selective and particular when it comes to their cars. Most Porsche drivers are used to the small and nifty models such as the Boxster and Cayman. Unfortunately there are a large number of Porsche fans who are deterred by this, needing more interior space for other members of their families. The Porsche Cayenne is a large 4x4 model, but one which some might find to be too bulky. There are Porsche lovers who still want the sleek compact design of the other Porsche models, but with more space.
This is where the concept for the new Porsche Panamera came into being. The creative facilities at Weissach, Leipzig and Zuffenhausen decided to design a four seat and four door model. Although the car is bigger and has four doors instead of the traditional two, it still carries the same dynamic look and performance of a traditional Porsche sports car.
The Panamera has apparently been born of another four door concept created by Porsche in the late 1980's. The idea for this Porsche from the 1980's was unsuccessful and never made it past the drawing table. The Panamera will be marketed as being in strong competition with cars such as the Mercedes CLS and the soon-to-be-released Aston Martin Rapide.
The bodywork of the Panamera is low and wide, and has been compared to a sedan. Although based loosely on the original design of the 911 Carrera, the Panamera is different in that its engine is in the front of the vehicle. This has irked some Porsche fanatics, but the Porsche designers have tried their best to keep the engine as close to the centre of the vehicle as possible. The Panamera range will include three engine choices for the Porsche purist. A more affordable V6 version is also expected to be released later next year.
Despite the hype, there are many Porsche enthusiasts who are not too thrilled about the production of the Panamera. They feel that too much has been taken away from the original feel of a Porsche. There were also a lot of negative whispers regarding the Porsche Cayenne, which was often labeled as 'ugly.' Due to the leaked spy photos people all over the world have analyzed and examined the new model and the response hasn't always been complimentary. Some are comparing it to the Cayenne and feel that the Panamera is only a bulkier and uglier version of the 911.
Despite all this, there are also plenty of enthusiasts who are on the edge of their seats in excitement. It seems to be a bold and intelligent venture for Porsche, and the build-up to its release has only created more eagerness for those wanting to get their hands on a more spacious model of their favorite kind of car.
