Tesla has solely transformed the electric-car landscape for the past decade. The company is also known for having the most reliable electric vehicles than its close competitors due to the high-tech features.
Many people think that all Tesla models are the same since they have autopilot and supercharger abilities. But these Tesla models still vary in price, range, trim levels, and many other features.
I know telling the difference between Tesla models may sound simple. But you need to know a thing or two about each model before jumping to a conclusion. Below is a comprehensive comparison guide for Tesla models.
Main Differences between Tesla Models
Tesla Model 3 and S Plaid have some close similarities that make it difficult to tell the difference from a distance. Besides that, some first-time Tesla owners cannot tell the difference between models Y and X.
I had to physically investigate these Tesla models from cargo space, seating capacity, price, and performance to exterior design. These key features helped me distinguish between Tesla models one by one. Let me now dive into the matter:
Size
Seating capacity and cargo space are crucial features that help distinguish between the Tesla models. These features also helped classify Tesla models as either medium sedans or crossover SUVs.
The Tesla Model 3 and S are mid-size sedans, while models Y and X are closely related to the crossover SUVs. These different sizes spell that crossover SUVs have more cargo space and seating capacities than their mid-size sedan counterparts.
The table below displays the actual cargo space measurements and seating capacities of each Tesla model:
| Tesla Models | Seating Capacity | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 23 Cubic Ft |
| S | 5 | 28 Cubic Ft |
| Y | 7 | 76 Cubic Ft |
| X | 7 | 88 Cubic Ft |
| Cyber Truck | 6 | 100 Cubic Ft |
Price
All Tesla models are relatively pricy since the company targets more budget-conscious electric vehicle enthusiasts.
But the price feature can still help distinguish between the Tesla models. Tesla Model 3 is the least expensive than models S, Y, and X.
But the incoming Tesla cybertruck will become the cheapest of all the models. However, these price differences do not compromise their performance. The table below shows an estimated price range for different Tesla models from the lowest to the highest:
| Tesla Models | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 41,990 | 57,990 |
| S | 89,990 | 129,900 |
| X | 54,990 | 61,990 |
| Y | 99,990 | 119,900 |
| Cybertruck | 39,990 | 69,990 |
Battery and Range
Many first-time Tesla owners suffer from range anxiety due to running out of battery charge while on the road. But the auto-tech improvement allows all Tesla models to attain a minimum range of 250 miles.
The Tesla Model S has an excellent range since it can reach 405 miles on a single charge. Tesla Model 3 has the worst mileage range than the other models.
Besides that, the Plaid and performance models get the lowest range than the long-range variants. Tesla models with the least powerful battery pack tend to have a range of 262 miles on a single charge. The table below shows the minimum and maximum Tesla model range estimates:
| Tesla Models | Lowest Range (Miles) | Highest Range (Miles) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 262 | 353 |
| S | 396 | 405 |
| Y | 303 | 326 |
| X | 340 | 360 |
| Cybertruck | 250 | TBD |
Performance and Power
Tesla models have three variants with different performances and power. The power and performance of each model depend on the Tesla version.
Tesla variants with double motors are more powerful than single motors. Standard plus Tesla models come with a rear-wheel-drive system that provides the lowest performance and power than their counterparts that comes with an all-wheel-drive system.
Tesla Model 3 and Y have the lowest top speed than models S and X. The table below displays the performance and power of different Tesla models:
| Tesla Models | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 140mph | 162mph |
| Y | 135mph | 135mph |
| S | 155mph | 200mph |
| X | 155.3mph | 198.8mph |
| Cybertruck | 110mph | 120mph |
Tesla Exterior Design
The overall car appearance and design help tell the difference between the Tesla models. Some models are closer to the ground with a flat hood than others.
Besides that, each design comes with advantages and disadvantages. Tesla Model 3 has a sedan design, while model Y has a hatchback SUV appearance.
It spells that Model 3 has a sleek design and sportier outlook than model Y. On the other hand, model X comes with a tow hitch that can pull up to 5000 lbs. These exterior outlook designs tend to set Tesla models apart. The table below shows the exterior dimension of each Tesla model:
| Tesla Models | Length (Inches) | Width (Inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 185 | 73 |
| Y | 187 | 76 |
| S | 196 | 77 |
| X | 198 | 79 |
The Difference Between Exterior Dimensions of Tesla Models
When it comes to choosing a Tesla model, one of the first things you’ll want to consider is the size. The company offers a range of options depending on the exterior dimensions, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the largest car in the Tesla range, with a length of 193.8 inches (4,916 mm), a width of 76.5 inches (1,943 mm), and a height of 56.5 inches (1,437 mm). It has a wheelbase of 116.5 inches (2,960 mm) and a ground clearance of 5.5 inches (140 mm).
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is slightly smaller than the Model S, with a length of 196.9 inches (4,990 mm), width of 77.3 inches (1,962 mm), and height of 65.0 inches (1,651 mm). It has a wheelbase of 117.7 inches (2,984 mm) and a ground clearance of 6.5 inches (165 mm).
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is the smallest car in the Tesla range, with a length of 184.8 inches (4,686 mm), a width of 72.8 inches (1,849 mm), and a height of 56.8 inches (1,444 mm). It has a wheelbase of 113.2 inches (2,874 mm) and a ground clearance of 5.5 inches (140 mm). Choosing the right Tesla model for you will come down to a number of factors, including the budget, driving needs, and personal preference.
Cargo Space in Tesla Models
When Tesla first started, it focused on making smaller cars that would be more affordable for the average person. This meant that their cargo space was not as large as some of the other options on the market.
However, as Tesla has grown and released new models, they have expanded its offerings to include larger vehicles with more cargo space.
The Model S is Tesla’s flagship car, and it has the most cargo space of any of its models. With a total of 85 cubic feet of space, it can easily accommodate five adults and their luggage. The Model X is Tesla’s SUV, and it has 77 cubic feet of cargo space.
This is still plenty of room for five adults and their belongings, but it is slightly less than the Model S. The Model 3 is Tesla’s smaller car, and it has 15 cubic feet of cargo space.
This is enough room for a few smaller bags or groceries, but it is not going to be able to hold as much as the other two models.
Pros and Cons of Different Tesla Models
Each Tesla model has its advantages and disadvantages. But the performance and power make these electric vehicles worth investing your money in. Let us now discuss the pros and cons of each model:
Pros of Tesla Model 3
- Environmental friendly since there are no emissions.
- Provide an excellent listening experience due to lack of noise.
- Super easy to open and shut the boot by touching the button.
Cons of Tesla Model 3
- Susceptible to getting wrong speed limits.
- Challenging to park due to large turning circles.
Pros of Tesla Model Y
- Relatively affordable
- Has a large cargo space.
- Has an excellent towing capacity of up to 3500 pounds.
Cons of Tesla Model Y
- Poor visibility due to sloping roof.
- Underwhelming interior finishes.
Pros of Tesla Model S
- Superior performance
- Excellent mileage range on a single charge
- Have low maintenance costs.
Cons of Tesla Model S
- Too expensive to acquire.
- Less range on highway driving.
Pros of Tesla Model X
- Tolerable commuting due to autopilot
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Long range and smart air suspension.
Cons of Tesla Model X
- Difficult to negotiate sharp corners.
- Provide rough ride quality due to low-profile tires.
Conclusion on Difference between Tesla Models
I recommend not relying much on the car specifications like range and speed. You may also compare the different variants using the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive specifications.
Another best alternative is to visit the Tesla showroom to see the distinction between Tesla models. Telling the differences between Tesla models from pictures could be misleading in some situations.
