The Tesla Model S was a game-changer, showing the world that electric cars could be both captivating and high-performing. Back in 2012, when the Model S first hit the streets, the general perception was that electric vehicles were sluggish and somewhat unexciting. However, times have changed, and now we see impressive EVs, including the very sleek Porsche Taycan.
If you’re craving electric speed, you might be torn between the Tesla Model S and the Porsche Taycan—and for good reason. Both cars bring plenty to the table. But is one truly better than the other? Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide.
First, let’s talk about their aesthetics. The Model S has evolved quite a bit over the years, showcasing a sleeker and more contemporary look compared to its original 2012 design. However, as Tesla vehicles have become more common, the Model S doesn’t stand out as much these days. In contrast, the Porsche Taycan looks like a futuristic sports car with its sloped roofline and angular headlights. It even features a light bar stretching across the back, giving it a unique and modern vibe. Still, the flashy design of the Taycan might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Ultimately, choosing between these two designs boils down to personal preference.
Inside the Tesla Model S, you’ll find a minimalistic, modern interior. The car comes in all black, black and white, or cream. A 17-inch touchscreen display controls most functions, including climate settings, and offers additional features like Netflix and Tesla’s navigation system. There’s also another screen serving as the digital instrument cluster.
On the other hand, the Porsche Taycan offers a more traditional interior. It has multiple displays upfront: a digital instrument cluster, a 10.9-inch infotainment screen, and an 8.4-inch display for climate controls and battery status. While it’s nice that the Taycan has a dedicated screen for climate functions, the choice between these two interiors again comes down to whether you prefer a minimalist or a more traditional setup.
Performance is where both cars truly shine. The Tesla Model S comes in two versions: the standard Model S and the more powerful Model S Plaid. The standard version can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The Model S Plaid takes things up a notch, hitting that speed in only 1.99 seconds, making it the fastest production car on the market currently.
The Porsche Taycan is no slouch either. The base model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, while the high-end Taycan Turbo S can do it in just 2.6 seconds. Although the Taycan offers a range of models, none can eclipse the speed of the Model S Plaid. So, Tesla takes the win in the performance category.
When it comes to range, Tesla’s experience in electric vehicles clearly shows. The base Model S boasts a range of 405 miles, while the Plaid version offers 396 miles. This puts Tesla miles ahead of most of the competition. The Model S also charges quickly, with the capability to gain 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes thanks to its 250 kW charging speed.
In comparison, the Porsche Taycan falls short in range. The base model covers only 208 miles, and the higher-end versions extend this to 246 miles. Although the Taycan charges slightly faster at 270 kW, giving you 75% charge in 22.5 minutes, the Tesla’s extended range is a significant advantage.
Lastly, we can’t ignore the price. The Tesla Model S starts at $74,990, while the Model S Plaid begins at $89,990. The Porsche Taycan’s starting price is higher, at $90,900, and it goes up significantly from there, reaching $197,500 for the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo. Clearly, the Tesla is more budget-friendly.
In summary, the Tesla Model S not only comes at a lower price but it also outperforms the Porsche Taycan in several key areas. While the Taycan’s design might appeal to those who love classic Porsche aesthetics, the Model S offers better range, superior performance, and more value for your money. If the design of the Model S suits you, it’s the better all-around choice.