My thinking exactly, and I too am a former E60 M5 owner. Sounds like this is a great option vs the current M5 for those of us who prefer 'connection' vs 'horsepower'. I just didn't need a 560 HP car for the street.

I bet the Panamera feels a lot better around town than the E60, which was glorious once you hit 6,000 rpm, but had no torque whatsoever below 4K. The SMG isn't even in the same league as the PDK, and I'm also looking forward to seeing the difference there.

How is the response of the engine? (Another strong point for the E60). What about the steering? I've heard some negatives in general about the Panamera steering, although with the stiffer suspension and lighter weight, maybe this one feels a bit better... How does it compare to the E60?

 

16/23 according to the window sticker

 

Yes, we are thinking exactly the same! I was VERY nervous about having selected the servotronic steering option after reading some of the posts here. It really is no big deal, perhaps a touch lighter than M Servotronic steering at low speeds, but it tightens up nicely above 20mph and I did not really notice a difference based on my driving style. I need more time behind the wheel, but I do think it is fair to say that the M5 does perhaps feel slightly more raw and connected in overall driving feel - not because of the steering, but the whole package. That being said, the ****pit and interior of the GTS absolutely kills a 4 year old M5 layout, and aggressive driving and heavy throttle in the GTS completely transforms the character into a sports car. I really like the balance.

 

Are you noticing the symposer any more as you log more miles?

 

Perhaps it a credit to how the sound symposer was designed, but I simply can't discern the contribution of the symposer - the exhaust sound is just there in the cabin. I have tried to toggle Sport and PSE on/off in various configurations but can't pinpoint it. There is absolutely no synthetic feel to the sound, it is just there - perhaps a touch louder in Sport, and with PSE on you get more grumble and kick-back. I must admit I am puzzled by this but not complaining one bit!

 

Glad to hear it's not a synthetic sound...and love descriptions like "grumble and kick back" from the sport exhaust. Enjoy!

 

That evidently beats the F10 M5, which even with "improving over the E60 by 30%" is 14/22. The E60 was 11/17 with an 18g fuel tank. Nice to not be filling up twice a week like I did with the E60.

 

I'll be very interested to hear your input once you get past break-in and can start pushing the car. Maybe you'll hear more from the 'sound symposer' - I'm hearing that this is a great thing.

 

I am confused with the designated year. Your car is a 2013? It's only Feb 2012 now...

 

Beautiful ride! I recently sold my E60 M5 and am thinking of the GTS as it is very difficult for me to justify the price of the turbo. Please keep the comparisons coming.

 

Congratulations!! It's a beauty!! Be safe and enjoy.!! ))))
I feel excited and it's not even mine! lol

 

Yes, for whatever reason, Porsche decided to release the 2013 on 3/1/2012. Pretty nice for those people picking up and driving a 2013 for 9 months before the 2013 year arrives!

 

I live 4 hours from the dealer and can only drive up on weekends. My GTS arrived this Friday and I can only pick it up in 4 weeks. Is there anything worse than that???

 

Sorry you have to wait, I feel for you!

Thanks to all for the nice comments. After a few more days with the new GTS I am still in heaven. One of the more surprising things for me is how damn good the lines of the car look in person. I caught myself looking back in the garage the other night and snapped this cell phone pick.

 

Yes it does look good! We need some high quality pics outdoors after a wash/wax etc. I mean, you have certain responsibilities here...

The only thing I'm not fond of is the yellow side markers. Evidently there are no aftermarket clear ones available, which is just crazy. If anyone knows of a source, I'll pay!!