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2024 Porsche Panamera vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class: What To Buy?
Porsche recently revealed the revamped 2024 Panamera lineup, featuring the standard sedan, and the AWD Panamera 4. An all-electric Panamera is in development on a new scalable platform but won’t hit the market for another four years. The Sport Turismo wagon style is discontinued due to slow sales. Despite this, the redesigned Panamera boasts improvements in technology, hybrid capabilities, luxury features, and performance, evolving from the second-generation model with cleaner lines and more pronounced front fenders. On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz S-class stands out as the epitome of luxury sedans. Serving as the brand’s flagship for decades. Offering cutting-edge tech and top-tier comfort, the S-class features a leather-clad interior with numerous large screens and touch controls.
| Porsche Panamera | Mercedes-Benz S-Class | |
| Dimensions | 198.9 in x 76.2 in x 56.0 in | 208.2 in x 76.9 in x 59.2 in |
| Engine | 2.9L twin-turbo V6 | 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 |
| Horsepower | 348 hp | 496 hp |
| Torque | 368 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.7 sec | 3.9 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA | 9.7 sec |
| Top-Speed | 170 mph | 129 mph |
Porsche Panamera
Engine & Performance
The new Panamera’s powertrains mirror those of the updated Cayenne SUV. RWD and AWD models are powered by a revised turbocharged 2.9L V6. Now boasting 348 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque. This represents a 23 hp and 37 lb-ft boost from the previous version. The exclusive transmission option remains the eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic. Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) is now a standard feature. Employing two-valve dampers and semi-active double-chamber air springs to maintain dynamic driving characteristics while improving ride quality.
Price & Mileage
The 2024 Porsche Panamera kicks off at $99,900, excluding the $1,650 delivery fee, marking a notable increase from the $92,400 sticker price of the 2023 models. Meanwhile, the 2024 Panamera 4 models start at an MSRP of $106,900. Reflecting a substantial hike compared to the current models. Despite the power boost in the new Panamera, it wouldn’t be surprising if the fuel economy remains consistent or even sees improvement. While waiting for official EPA estimates. It’s noteworthy that the previous Panamera achieved ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
Porsche asserts a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds for the base model and 4.7 seconds for the Panamera 4. The interior of the new Panamera draws inspiration from the Taycan EV. Featuring a dash-mounted gear selector toggle and up to three digital screens. This includes a 12.6-inch unit for the instrument cluster and optional dual 10.9-inch touchscreens in the centre and on the passenger side. Porsche has prioritized comfort with new foam padding for the Panamera’s seats, which are now available in non-leather materials. The steering wheel incorporates controls for drive modes and the instrument cluster, while the updated infotainment system enhances functionality for the MyPorsche app when connected to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Engine & Performance
Mercedes presents the S-class sedan with two powerful engine options. The S500 features a 429-hp turbocharged 3.0L inline-six-cylinder engine, while the S580 boasts a 496-hp twin-turbo 4.0L V8. Both engines incorporate a 48-volt hybrid system, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a 4Matic AWD. The S580e plug-in hybrid variant combines an inline-six engine with an electric motor, delivering an impressive 510 hp, with standard AWD. All S-class models come equipped with air suspension, and for those opting for the E-Active Body Control, a unique “curve” function subtly leans the car into corners for an enhanced driving experience.
Price & Mileage
For those who appreciate the pinnacle of luxury and performance, we’d recommend the S580 variant with the commanding 496-hp V8 engine, adorned with the prestigious S580 trunk-lid badge. The S-Class lineup commences at $118,450 for the S500 and reaches $129,300 for the S580. The six-cylinder S500 boasts fuel efficiency ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Opting for the V8-powered S580 adjusts these estimates to 16 mpg city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
On the test track, the six-cylinder S500 achieved a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, the plug-in-hybrid S580e accomplished it in 4.2 seconds, and the V8-powered S580 delivered an impressive 3.9-second time. The sedan’s centre stack is dominated by a massive 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen positioned portrait-style. However, it lacks a touchpad or rotary controller. What it does offer is an upgraded version of Mercedes’ MBUX software, featuring enhanced voice-command functions and smartphone-like capabilities, including facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless charging. The S-class sedan also boasts a standard Burmester 3D sound system, with an optional Burmester 4D stereo for those seeking a more powerful audio experience.