Tesla Model 3 vs Tesla Model S: Comparison of two flagship electric cars

Tesla has been a leader in the world of electric vehicles for many years, and its Model 3 and Model S are among the most famous representatives of this brand. If you are planning to buy a Tesla, the question of which of these cars to choose - Model 3 or Model S - is a key one. In this article, we will compare these two models in detail, looking at the main parameters: size, price, performance, technology, comfort, and safety.

Tesla Model 3

Tesla Model 3 is one of the most popular models among Tesla electric vehicles, which has undergone numerous updates over the years. This car is a compact sedan that is positioned as the most affordable in the Tesla lineup. Its length is approximately 4.7 metres, making it ideal for urban environments. The exterior design of the Tesla Model 3 is distinguished by its elegance and aerodynamic shape, which helps to reduce air resistance and increase energy efficiency. Over the years, the model has received various updates, including changes to the shape of the headlights, bumpers and body parts, giving it an aggressive and modern look.

One of the key advantages of the Tesla Model 3 is its various configurations and battery options that affect the range and dynamics of the car. In the base Standard Range version, the car provides up to 430 km of WLTP range, which is suitable for urban environments and short trips. The Long Range version offers a significantly longer range of up to 580 km, making it ideal for long journeys without frequent recharging. The most powerful version, the Performance, combines a high range of up to 560 km with impressive dynamics, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. This is one of the fastest versions of any electric vehicle available in this class.

The interior of the Tesla Model 3 is known for its minimalist design approach. The main element of the interior is a 15-inch touchscreen that controls all the car's functions - from multimedia to climate settings and driving. There is no dashboard, and all important data, including speed and battery level, is displayed on the central screen. This design approach helps create a sense of spaciousness in the cabin. The latest versions of the Model 3 have improved noise insulation and new trim materials, which have significantly increased the level of comfort during the ride.

In addition to its aesthetic and technical features, the Tesla Model 3 is distinguished by its excellent road dynamics. Thanks to its low centre of gravity and balanced suspension, the car provides a smooth ride and stability even at high speeds. Depending on the equipment, the Model 3 can accelerate to 100 km/h from 5.6 seconds in the base version to an impressive 3.1 seconds in the Performance version. Regardless of the trim level, the car delivers superb handling and performance in all conditions.

Key features of the Tesla Model 3:

• A compact saloon with a modern and elegant design optimised for aerodynamics.
• The Standard Range, Long Range, and Performance variants are available with different range and performance characteristics.
• Different versions of the battery provide a range of 430 to 580 km, depending on the model and equipment.
• Minimalist interior with a large 15-inch touchscreen for controlling all vehicle functions.
• Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h varies from 5.6 to 3.1 seconds depending on the version.
• Support for the Tesla Supercharger network for fast charging during long journeys.

Tesla Model S 

The Tesla Model S is one of the most luxurious and powerful models in the Tesla range. It is a car that offers exceptional levels of performance and comfort, ideal for those looking for space, power and long range. It is about 5 metres long, making it significantly more spacious than the Model 3. Thanks to its hatchback design, the Model S offers a large boot capacity of up to 745 litres. The interior space is also larger, allowing rear seat passengers to feel comfortable even on long journeys. The design of the Model S combines elegance and restraint, and its aerodynamic shape contributes to efficient energy use and reduced air resistance, which directly affects the vehicle's range.

The technical characteristics of the Tesla Model S are impressive. The car is offered in two main versions: Long Range and Plaid. The Long Range version provides up to 650 km of range, which makes it a great option for long journeys. This is one of the longest ranges among electric vehicles in its class. Meanwhile, the Plaid is the true flagship, which is equipped with a triple motor and has an impressive power output of over 1000 horsepower. This version is capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in just 2.1 seconds, which puts it on par with supercars. Regardless of the version, both models support fast charging via the Tesla Supercharger network, which allows you to quickly charge the car even on long routes.

The interior of the Tesla Model S is designed for maximum comfort and functionality. Compared to the Model 3, the Model S has more space and technological solutions. The main element of the cabin is a large 17-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard, as well as an additional screen for the driver, which displays all the necessary data while driving. There is also a screen for passengers in the rear of the cabin, making journeys even more comfortable for the whole family. The quality of the finishes is also superior, including the use of premium materials such as leather and aluminium inlays that create a luxurious cabin atmosphere.

The performance of the Tesla Model S combines speed and comfort. Even in the basic Long Range version, the car demonstrates excellent acceleration performance - 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds. This is a performance that is on par with sports cars. The Plaid version, however, is the most powerful, reaching 100 km/h in an incredible 2.1 seconds. This car provides both high performance for speed enthusiasts and comfort and space for long journeys with the family.

Key features of the Tesla Model S:

• Spacious interior and luggage compartment with a total volume of up to 745 litres.
• There are two versions - Long Range (650 km of range) and Plaid (over 1,000 hp and acceleration to 100 km/h in 2.1 seconds).
• High-quality materials, two touch screens, comfortable conditions for the driver and passengers.
• Support for the Tesla Supercharger network, autonomous control systems, screens for passengers.
• High dynamics performance with varying power levels depending on the configuration.

Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model S comparison: a detailed overview

When you have to choose between the Tesla Model 3 and the Tesla Model S, it's important to consider your needs and budget. Both models have many advantages and belong to different classes of electric vehicles, so the choice depends on what you need: compactness and economy or more space and power. Let's take a closer look at the key aspects that will help you make the right choice between these two models.

Price and availability

Let's start with the main thing - the price. The Tesla Model 3 is a more affordable option compared to the Tesla Model S, which makes it attractive to a wider range of buyers. Prices for the Model 3 start at around $40,000 depending on the configuration and version. This makes it a great option for those looking for their first electric car or wanting to switch to Tesla without spending a lot of money.

The Model S, on the other hand, is located in the higher price segment, starting at $75,000 for the base version. This model is aimed at those who are willing to spend more to get more range, space and performance. It is worth noting that the price of the Model S increases significantly in the Plaid version, which has exceptional power and dynamics. This price difference clearly indicates that the Model 3 is suitable for those who want an electric vehicle with all the core Tesla technologies, but for less.

Size and practicality

In terms of size, the Tesla Model 3 is more compact. It is a mid-size car, which makes it a great choice for urban environments. With dimensions of around 4.7 metres in length, the Model 3 is easy to manoeuvre in city conditions, easy to park and offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo. However, due to the smaller boot size (425 litres) and less space in the rear seats, this car is more suitable for small families or those who do not plan to travel with a lot of belongings.

The Tesla Model S, on the other hand, offers significantly more space for both passengers and luggage. With a length of almost 5 metres and a hatchback format, it provides 745 litres of luggage space, which is more than many similar electric vehicles. In addition, the Model S has a more spacious interior with more comfortable rear seats, making it ideal for long journeys or for large families. If you need a spacious car that can be used for both city driving and long journeys, the Model S is a great choice.

Batteries and range

One of the most important parameters when choosing an electric vehicle is the range. There are also significant differences between the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model S.

The Model 3 is available in several battery options and trim levels, including Standard Range, Long Range, and Performance.

• The Standard Range version offers a range of up to 430 km, which is sufficient for daily commuting and short trips.
• Long Range is a version with a longer range of up to 580 km, which is suitable for long journeys and minimises the need for frequent charging.
• The Performance has a battery that delivers up to 560 km of range, but also combines excellent performance figures such as a 0-60 km/h time of 3.1 seconds.

The Model S, in turn, has always been positioned as the flagship model with the longest range. In the Long Range version, the car can travel up to 650 km on a single charge, making it one of the leaders in this indicator among electric vehicles. For those who like performance, the Plaid offers a range of up to 560 km, which is also very high for a sports car.

In addition, both models support fast charging via the Tesla Supercharger network, which allows you to top up the 80% battery in a short time, which is especially convenient for long trips.

Performance and dynamics

Tesla is known for its exceptional performance, and both models do not disappoint. However, there are significant differences in the performance characteristics between the Model 3 and Model S.

Tesla Model 3 has different versions that differ in performance:

• The Standard Range accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, making it a great option for everyday driving.
• Long Range is a version that offers acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, which is already close to sports performance.
• The Performance is the fastest version of the Model 3, accelerating to 100 km/h in an impressive 3.1 seconds.

The Tesla Model S, especially in the Plaid version, delivers outstanding performance. Accelerating to 100 km/h in 2.1 seconds makes it one of the fastest production cars in the world. Even the base Long Range version accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, which is also an impressive figure for a car of this class.

Interior and comfort

The interiors of the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model S have a similar minimalist style, but there are differences in comfort and equipment.

The Model 3 has a single large 15-inch touchscreen that controls all vehicle functions. This simplifies the interior design, but some drivers may find the lack of a separate display for the instrument clutter inconvenient. However, it is worth noting that the Model 3 offers comfortable seats and ample space for front passengers. The rear seats may be less comfortable for taller passengers due to limited headroom.

The Model S, on the other hand, offers a higher level of comfort. There are two screens in the cabin: one for the driver and a 17-inch central touchscreen display. There is also a screen for passengers in the rear seats, which adds to the convenience of long journeys. The quality of materials in the Model S is significantly higher, reflecting its premium segment.

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Conclusion.

The choice between Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model S depends on your priorities and needs. If you're looking for a more affordable, compact electric car for daily city driving with good dynamics, the Model 3 is a great option. It offers excellent performance at an affordable price. However, if you need a spacious, luxurious car for long journeys with maximum range and power, then the Model S is the perfect choice. Each model has its own strengths, and your choice depends on whether you prioritise economy or comfort and performance.