V to C Miscellany, January 1988
Michael Ware "discovered" that 1922 3-litre Bentley which is causing so much controversy and excitement in BDC circles, only in as much as he referred to it in his Discovered…
If you’re in the market for a new electric Porsche, you should think really hard before spending the extra £32,000 or £55,000 required to upgrade from this Taycan 4S model to a Turbo or Turbo S. Because so far as I can see, and for almost everyone almost all of the time, it can’t possibly be worth it.
If you’ve driven one of the nuttier Teslas, you’ll know that because of the way electric cars deliver power (instantly), flat-out acceleration can be quite uncomfortable even for the driver, let alone passengers. And bar some extra equipment, all of which can be optioned into the 4S, that’s all you’re buying, and you’re getting a heavier car.
Besides, look me in the eye and tell me that the 4sec 0-62mph sprint offered by the 4S really isn’t quick enough. I took one up and down a sizeable mountain and not once did I ever lament the lack of urge under my foot. What I liked was that it rode every bit as well as its pricier brethren, handled better because it’s 165kg lighter than the Turbo, and came with the same superbly glossy and intuitive electronic dashboard.
Were it my money I’d definitely spend the extra £4613 on the increased range and performance, plus reduced charging time, and I would probably option in four-wheel steering, too. Beyond that and perhaps a stereo upgrade, I don’t think there’s much point spending more. The Taycan 4S is the best Taycan as it stands, which also makes it the best electric car on sale right now.
Price £83,397
Engine Front and rear electric motors, 79.2kWh battery (94.3kWh optional)
Power 523bhp
Weight 2140kg
Power to weight 200bhp per tonne
Transmission two-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
0-60mph 4.0sec
Top speed 155mph
Range 207-253 miles
CO₂ n/a g/km
Verdict The best electric car on sale