Porsche 959

vs

Porsche Panamera

Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 2009

Porsche 959 (1986)
Porsche Panamera (2009)
Specifications
959 SportPanamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo
Horsepower450 hp700 hp
Torque369 lb-ft642 lb-ft
Engine Size2,849 cc3,996 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec3.0 sec
Top Speed197 mph196 mph
¼ Mile11.8 sec11.0 sec
Weight3,197 lbs5,434 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,950 mm
Length4,260 mm5,053 mm
Units Produced337—
Original MSRP$225,000$196,100
Value (Excellent)$3,500,000$200,000
Collectibility10/106/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1986 Porsche 959 Sport brings higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2009 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo answers with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Porsche has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport with the 2009 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2009 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 700 hp compared to 450 hp, a 250-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 959 uses a Flat-6 Twin-Turbo (Sequential) displacing 2,849 cc, while the Porsche Panamera relies on a V8 Twin-Turbo Hybrid with 3,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2009 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo edges ahead at 3.0 seconds versus 3.6 seconds. The Porsche 959 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2237 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport commands a significant premium over the 2009 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.