Porsche Panamera ‘Lion’ Might Have Posted A 7:11 Lap At The ‘Ring

The mysterious Porsche Panamera prototype spied testing at the Nurburgring last month allegedly lapped the circuit in just 7 minutes and 11 seconds, multiple media outlets report.

GTspirit reached out to Porsche and discovered that the prototype was created by a small internal project team aiming to explore the racing potential of the Panamera as a celebration for the model’s 10th anniversary. Only minor visual alterations distinguished the test car, although it was spotted with a license plate reading ‘LEO-GD 710’, reportedly a reference to a 7:10 targeted lap time.

Also Read: Mystery Porsche Panamera Turbo Prototype Looks Extreme, Could Pack 820 HP

It is claimed that Porsche’s engineers stripped away much of the interior and saved 550 lbs (249 kg) despite installing a full roll cage that weighs 250 lbs (113 kkg). Also found in the cabin of the prototype is a racing seat for the driver and the passenger seat from a 718 Cayman GT4.

Porsche has allegedly dubbed the project Panamera ‘Lion’ and done so much to the engine that it now pumps out 750 HP, roughly 80 hp more than the current Turbo S E-Hybrid range-topper.

Quizzed by GTspirit about the claimed 7:11 lap time, Porsche spokesman Ben Weinberger winked and said “I can neither confirm nor deny this number…”

If the ‘Lion’ did indeed lap the Green Hell in 7 minutes and 11 seconds, then it’s a full 27 seconds faster than the 2017 Panamera Turbo, Porsche’s fastest sedan around the German circuit.