2011 Panoz Abruzzi Prototype Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Panoz Abruzzi Prototype is 1400 kg (3086 lbs). This relatively lightweight build for a grand tourer-type coupe contributes to agile handling and enhanced acceleration, especially important given its V8 powerplant. A lower curb weight improves fuel efficiency and braking performance as well. The use of lightweight materials and design optimizations typical for concept vehicles ensure the Abruzzi balances structural rigidity with a dynamic driving experience.

The Panoz Abruzzi Prototype rides on staggered wheels and tires with sizes 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. Specifically, the tires are sized 285/30 R19 up front and a wider 335/25 R20 at the rear. This setup enhances cornering grip and traction by maximizing the rear tire contact patch, important for a rear-wheel-drive, V8-powered coupe. Larger rear wheels and wide tires improve stability during acceleration and high-speed driving, making the Abruzzi's handling more precise and planted.

With a length of 4877 mm (192.0 inches), the Abruzzi Prototype is designed as a grand touring coupe, which generally means a focus on driver and front passenger comfort rather than rear seat spaciousness. Its dimensions allow for a relatively roomy cockpit with adequate legroom and headroom for two occupants. However, as a prototype focused on performance and style, interior space optimization was likely secondary to design cues and aerodynamics, resulting in a more intimate cabin environment typical of exotic coupes.

The Panoz Abruzzi Prototype, measuring 4877 mm (192.0 inches) in length, is slightly longer than many production coupes but should fit comfortably in a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garage dimensions range from approximately 5486 mm to 6096 mm (18 to 20 feet) deep and 2743 mm (9 feet) wide, meaning the Abruzzi's length leaves some room for opening doors and accessing the vehicle comfortably. However, due to the car’s wide wheel and tire setup, careful parking might be necessary to avoid scraping or damage in narrower garage spaces.

The Panoz Abruzzi Prototype, introduced in 2011, marked a significant evolution for Panoz compared to their earlier models like the Panoz Esperante. The Abruzzi is notably longer at 4877 mm (192.0 inches) compared to the Esperante's length of approximately 4500 mm (177.2 inches), offering a more commanding road presence and grand touring capability. The Abruzzi’s weight at 1400 kg (3086 lbs) is also competitive, contributing to improved performance dynamics. These dimensional changes reflect Panoz's shift to a more luxurious and aerodynamic coupe with enhanced comfort and performance over previous generations.

When compared to similar grand touring coupes like the Aston Martin V8 Vantage or Jaguar F-Type, the Panoz Abruzzi Prototype holds its own in terms of size and weight. At 4877 mm (192.0 inches) long, it is on the longer side of the spectrum, slightly more imposing than most competitors which range from about 4400 mm to 4650 mm in length. Its curb weight of 1400 kg (3086 lbs) is fairly light for a grand tourer of this size, where approximations often exceed 1600 kg (3527 lbs). This balance of length and lightweight construction lends the Abruzzi distinctive agility and GT presence.

As a prototype, the Panoz Abruzzi features innovative design elements that distinguish it from production vehicles. The coupe's sleek aerodynamic silhouette emphasizes smooth flowing lines and aggressive stance, designed to reduce drag and increase high-speed stability. Its staggered wheel and large tire sizes contribute both aesthetic appeal and performance benefits. The Abruzzi also showcases Panoz's craftsmanship with bespoke bodywork and lightweight structural materials. These aspects reflect the brand’s focus on blending race-inspired engineering with luxury styling in a unique package.

Being a prototype produced only in 2011, the Panoz Abruzzi served as a testbed for technology and design ideas rather than mass production. This status allowed Panoz engineers to explore new aerodynamic concepts, materials, and performance parameters without constraints typical of production cars. Consequently, the Abruzzi provided valuable data that influenced future development of production vehicles. However, as a prototype, it remained a rare collector’s item rather than a commonly available model, emphasizing experimentation over commercial viability.

The Panoz Abruzzi Prototype’s staggered tire setup with 285/30 R19 front tires and wide 335/25 R20 rear tires is designed for maximizing grip and enhancing performance dynamics. The wider rear tires provide increased contact with the road surface, improving traction and stability especially under acceleration and cornering in a rear-wheel-drive layout. Narrower front tires facilitate sharper steering input and better turn-in response. The low-profile tires contribute to improved road feel but can also result in a firmer ride. Collectively, this configuration strikes a balance between high-speed stability and agile handling.