When Porsche->ke1 launched the Panamera, we were a little shocked, but the novelty has quickly worn off and we are now pretty much indifferent about it. The biggest issue that makes the Panamera->ke1840 such an afterthought is the fact that it's not really cool. Sure it's a sedan, but sedans can still be pretty bad-ass (see: Tesla Model S->ke3329, Ford Taurus SHO, etc.)

Germany's No Limit Custom, a motorcycle customization shop, has shifted its focus from building awesome bikes to modifying sports cars. One of its newest models released is a modification kit to the Porsche Panamera, which it dubbed the GP-970. NLC claims this kit fits every style of Panamera to date: the Panamera, Panamera S, Panamera S Hybrid, Panamera 4/4S, Panamera GTS, Panamera Turbo, and Panamera Turbo S.

For the most part, the GP-970 kit is only to increase the appearance and aerodynamics of the already relatively powerful Panamera. As with many body kits, there is a fine line between improving the car and completely ruining it, which is what we need to take a look at.

To find out if NLC is part of the former or latter group, you're going to have to click past the jump.

2012 Porsche Panamera GP -970 by NLC

Specifications
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  • Model: 2012 Porsche Panamera GP -970 by NLC
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Pros
Cons

Body Changes

The GP-970 starts up front with a drastically redesigned front fascia. Gone is the plain-Jane Panamera nose and in comes one that has a beak that rivals that of modern-day Acuras. Just above the beak is a rectangular air intake port and just below it is a large open-mouth grille, which gives the Panemera a sinister smile. The GP-970 retains the Panamera's fog lights, but surrounds them in large air ducts.

The new hood has a similar raised center to the factory Panamera, yet the center section is raised more sharply and valleys in the center.

Down the side of the Panamera GP-970, you get a set of aggressive side skirts, which actually angle outward from the rocker panels. The revised rear bumper boasts a large diffuser that has exhaust cutouts and some much-needed shape. You also get taillight borders and a bezel that goes over the top of the rear window.

NLC prides itself in manufacturing only top-level body kits. This particular example is made completely from carbon fiber; no brittle ABS plastics here. You can opt for either a painted finish on the body kit or you can leave the carbon fiber exposed for a more aggressive look.

Rims and Tires

The Panamera's rims are scrapped for this program and replaced by a set of machined wheels that NLC manufactures itself. The front rims measure in at 9.5 x 22 inches and are hugged by 265/30R22 rubber, while the rear rims are 11 x 22 inches and wrapped in 315/25R22 tires. You can opt for other rims ranging from 20 to 23 inches that are available in black, gold, or titanium grey.

These rims are manufactured from a solid piece of high-tensile aluminum and weigh considerably less than the Panamera's standard wheels. This weight savings drop the un-sprung weight of the car, allowing it to handle much better. NLC can even custom fabricate wheels for your Panamera, according to your design.

Performance Modifications

The only mechanical modification is the addition of a sports exhaust system, which may or may not increase performance. There is an “Accessories” section on the tuner's website that is still under construction and there may be some additional performance items listed there.

Pricing

NLC does not list any pricing for this kit, but we are certain that it ranges around $8,000 to $10,000.

Conclusion

The kit is a little over the top, but that is really what the Panamera needs, especially the Turbo S model. By far, our favorite part is the aftermarket and fully customizable rims.