Is a Used Panamera a Good Deal?

In February this year, Porsche officially announced that it would end production of all diesel models (the Macan and Panamera), citing tighter vehicle emissions regulations and changing customer demand. As a result, diesel Panameras have become cheaper worldwide, and buyers may even be able to negotiate a discount—making them excellent value, by some accounts.

A little online research turns up several articles claiming that “the diesel Panamera, which was never sold new in Japan, is a bargain.” Porsche diesel models aren’t sold through Japanese dealerships, so this isn’t directly relevant to buyers living in Japan. Still, the articles offer some useful insights into the UK used Panamera market, so here’s a closer look.

Like a 911, Only Bigger

One article says that “a used Panamera registered in 2010 offers technology and capabilities like those of a 911, only in a larger package.” In the UK, you can apparently buy one for the equivalent of around ¥4.5 million. In Japan, 2010 models are listed for just under ¥5 million and up, with prices generally ranging from ¥4 million to ¥6 million.

The article also argues that “you’d be happier spending the same money on a regular 2007 Porsche 911 (997) 3.8 Carrera, even though it’s older than the Panamera.” The reason?

While the 911 is widely regarded as the Porsche in its purest form, the Panamera was created with the hard-nosed goal of taking market share from its rivals in the performance-saloon segment.

…Well, that may be how a die-hard 911 fan sees it.

Why a Used Panamera Can Be a Bargain

So, why can buying a used Panamera be such a good deal? Here are a few reasons.

① Many Have Low Mileage

Many Panameras were used as company cars, sometimes for little more than trips to and from the nearest station, so plenty have relatively low mileage. Even browsing Japanese used-car listings, most are under 20,000 km. I found only one with more than 100,000 km on the clock.

② They Often Come with a Full Service History

Many Panameras used as company cars have a complete service history. Since they were used to carry important clients, they were often given regular oil changes and dealer inspections. That can make for a more reassuring purchase.

③ Even Fully Loaded, They’re Affordable

You can find fully optioned examples for around ¥4 million. Adding all those options to a new, base Panamera would cost several million yen, so getting the whole package for around ¥4.5 million certainly sounds like a bargain. In Japan, I also found examples in the ¥5-million range with plenty of options, even if they weren’t fully loaded.

“A Drowned 911” …

The article has this to say about the design:

Beside the cleaner-looking second-generation model, the first-generation Panamera may seem a little dated.

From the front, the differences don’t seem all that dramatic, but the rear design changed significantly between the old and new models. I always liked the original’s rear end, but after getting used to the new one, I can see how the first generation might look dated.

Incidentally, Jeremy Clarkson of the BBC’s popular motoring show Top Gear once described the early Panamera as “a drowned 911.”

What Do the Experts Think of the Panamera?

The article also shares the views of Steve MacPherson, a member of Porsche Club GB, one of the world’s largest car clubs.

“Before I bought my first Panamera eight years ago, I’d owned ten 911s. I’ve never regretted buying the Panamera. It’s practical, but it’s also every bit as enjoyable to drive every day as a 911.”

That’s a pretty convincing endorsement from someone who has owned ten 911s. Even now, I sometimes find myself wishing I could drive the previous-generation Panamera Edition again. All things considered, I think a used Panamera can be a real bargain.

*Source: Porsche Panamera: Diesel Not Sold in Japan and the UK Used-Car Market (livedoor NEWS)