Same engine, very different use, and results
Both the Audi SQ7 and the Porsche Panamera 4S Diesel use the same V8 diesel unit, only in different power states. In TopGear Magazine’s book, this calls for a drag race.
Audi SQ7 TDI was offered to us as the most potent diesel SUV in the world. Having 429 hp (435 PS) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) at its disposal, the 4.0-liter oil burner can launch SQ7’s 5,004-pound (2,270-kg) body to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds.
The new Porsche Panamera 4S diesel uses the same engine; only a bit detuned. 416 hp (422 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque are the figures Porsche's executive saloon marches with. However, thanks to its lesser weight (of 4,519 pounds, or 2,050 kilograms) the Panamera reaches the 62 mph mark after just 4.5 seconds; opt for the Sport Chrono Package, and you’ll shave another 0.2 seconds.
As we’ve been shown before, in a drag race the power isn’t everything. The car’s shape has something to say here as well, and, in the case of a big SUV like the SQ7, the aero isn’t a friend at high speeds.
The result is predictable, of course, which makes us wonder if there isn’t a better matching rival for the SQ7 in a drag race. The new Porsche Cayenne S diesel isn’t here yet, but the Bentley Bentayga Diesel is perfect for a versus. It uses the same unit, with the same power rating, and, amazingly, boasts the same 0-62 mph time of 4.8 seconds as the SQ7, despite being some 500 pounds (235 kilos) heavier than the Audi.
We've recently driven the SQ7, and a review is in the works. Until then, read our impressions on the new Porsche Panamera, or the incredibly complex Cayenne.
Plus, we have a video review on the mightiest Bentley, the Bentayga W12.