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Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 5:42 pm
by sjl333
Hello all,

Probably not the best place to be asking this kind of question,

But hypothecially, let's say you had 100k cash lying around and you were in the market to buy a Tesla.

Would you buy a new model S P100D, a lightly used model S p100d, wait for a refresh for the model S and then buy, or buy a brand new model 3 performance?

These are the only options (sorry not looking for those posts that say buy a Corolla and invest the rest).

Asking for a friend. He plans to actually buy it sometime next year but is trying to crowd source some data.

Thanks.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 5:57 pm
by TropikThunder
sjl333 wrote: Thu Aug 13, 2020 5:42 pm Hello all,

Probably not the best place to be asking this kind of question,

But hypothecially, let's say you had 100k cash lying around and you were in the market to buy a Tesla.

Would you buy a new model S P100D, a lightly used model S p100d, wait for a refresh for the model S and then buy, or buy a brand new model 3 performance?

These are the only options (sorry not looking for those posts that say buy a Corolla and invest the rest).

Asking for a friend. He plans to actually buy it sometime next year but is trying to crowd source some data.

Thanks.
This is a really bad place to ask about car buying unless you are talking about a gently used Camry or Accord, at least 10 years old, and you plan to own it for at least 10 years. I'd post this on a Tesla forum.
https://teslaownersonline.com/
https://forums.tesla.com/
https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 6:33 pm
by Kenkat
Both fine cars but not in the same class. If money is no object up to 100k, he should buy a model S, probably a new one unless he is willing to wait.

If money is an object, then we need to know how much of an object. Even Tesla itself says:

Model S is our flagship, premium sedan with more range, acceleration, displays and customization options. Model 3 is designed and built as a mass market, affordable electric vehicle. ... Model S and Model 3 are both designed to be the world's leading cars in their class, built upon the fourth version of Tesla technology.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 6:45 pm
by brillantmistake
I had Model S 85D, and now I have the Model 3, albeit not the Performance versions.

I prefer driving the Model 3. It is a little more fun to drive with sportier handling. Unless you really prefer the interior styling of the Model S, I would save the money and buy the Model 3.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 7:13 pm
by Normchad
I’d buy the Model 3.

A lot of Model 3 owners are given a Model S as a service loaner. Almost all of them say they’re glad they didn’t buy the S.

They are different types of cars. The beef with the S seems to be its size, and it feels more like a barge.....

I’ve never driven a Model S so, I don’t know. I am a very happy Model 3 owner, although not the performance model.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:21 pm
by mmmodem
If I'm spending $100k, I'm getting the latest and greatest. I'd get the Y performance. Since that is not a choice, I'd get the 3 performance. In four to five years time when the remodeled S is available freely, I'd trade up to that. I'm expecting the remodeled S to come out in 3 years accommodating for "Musk time" plus a year or two for demand to subside and first year problems to go away.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:27 pm
by BH_RedRan
My preference is the Model S. I have driven Model 3's as loaners but own an S. The big difference for me is that the S has a "normal" dashboard where-as the Model 3 has everything on the center console screen. They both are great to drive and I suppose I could get over missing a dashboard display situated behind the steering wheel but, for now, I think that tips it for me. Best to test drive the two and decide for oneself which is OK.

I have a small nitpick with the wheels on the Model 3. I just don't like the looks of them. They look cheap to me. Maybe there are better looking wheels now? Have not looked in a while.

I don't think you can go wrong with either one (if you have the cash and are willing to spend it on something as frivolous as a "nice" car. :wink: )

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:29 pm
by stoptothink
BH_RedRan wrote: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:27 pmI have a small nitpick with the wheels on the Model 3. I just don't like the looks of them. They look cheap to me. Maybe there are better looking wheels now? Have not looked in a while.
There are actually nice rims under those hideous "aero" wheel covers on the 3. From what I have seen, most people take them off.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 9:16 pm
by oldcomputerguy
This topic is now in the Personal Consumer Issues forum (vehicle purchases and maintenance). -- moderator oldcomputerguy

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2020 10:54 pm
by oscarsonthepond
3 is an incredible car but not in the same class as S. If money is no object, a new S is the obvious choice.

If waiting till next year to buy, would also consider the Cybertruck.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 6:41 am
by lazydavid
Ironically, I was just having this (hypothetical, in my case) conversation with my son two days ago. Hands down I'd take the Model 3 performance. Way more nimble, engaging, and fun to drive. The fact that it's significantly cheaper is a nice bonus, but had nothing to do with my decision process.
BH_RedRan wrote: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:27 pm I have a small nitpick with the wheels on the Model 3. I just don't like the looks of them. They look cheap to me. Maybe there are better looking wheels now? Have not looked in a while.
The wheels on the base model are indeed hideous. But the performance trim comes with 20" wheels that actually look pretty nice:

https://snebulos.mit.edu/home/robg/pict ... heels2.jpg

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 7:07 am
by Jack FFR1846
Door #3 that still fits in his budget. A new Model S. They start at $85k, so there's more than enough with $100k to buy one.

Advantages of the 3: Lower cost. Newer technology. Improved major components (motor).
Disadvantages of the 3: Much smaller. Looks like an $18k car (to me).

Advantages of a NEW model S: Older technology, but major problems with poorly designed motor bearings wearing out, requiring replacement of the motor is fixed. New car warranty. Much better value. Don't have to deal with Tesla's Reindeer games of whack a mole showing you the car online, then hiding it, then losing it completely and after months of you having paid for it and registered, they finally find it and schedule a pickup and you get there and they don't know who you are, what car you're talking about but they know only one thing for sure....they don't have your car. (see the Rich Rebuilds youtube videos....he went through all of this buying a used model X). The S is also a MUCH nicer looking car. Although getting old at this point, it actually looks like they employed a designer.
Disadvantages of the NEW Model S: Although it's a nice car, it's not worth $85k.

Advantages of a used Model S: Cheaper than a new model S. Much nicer interior, room and design than a model 3.
Disadvantages of a used Model S: Not much cheaper than a new model S. With the factory no longer working all out to keep up with orders, used Tesla prices are going to start dropping, so expect at sale time, you'll take a bath. Expect the motor bearings to fail ($10k). Check the brakes carefully. Common failure point if the first owner mostly used regen braking because the calipers don't move and seize. $3,000. Of course, those problematic, cheap plastic door handles that fail once a year at $800 a pop. (hint....contact electrified garage and get their redesigned handles that don't die once a year).

If you live somewhere that gets really cold in the winter, be prepared that the doors won't open when it's really cold. So you'll want that Corolla to drive when the Tesla isn't available for you.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:10 am
by lightheir
Seriously? I have like 7 friends all with Model S thru 3s and none of them had had annual 'handle' blowups, or other problems you've mentioned.

They have had some small alignment issues with the external pieces with the Model 3 as reported, though.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:23 am
by stoptothink
lazydavid wrote: Fri Aug 14, 2020 6:41 am Ironically, I was just having this (hypothetical, in my case) conversation with my son two days ago. Hands down I'd take the Model 3 performance. Way more nimble, engaging, and fun to drive. The fact that it's significantly cheaper is a nice bonus, but had nothing to do with my decision process.
BH_RedRan wrote: Thu Aug 13, 2020 8:27 pm I have a small nitpick with the wheels on the Model 3. I just don't like the looks of them. They look cheap to me. Maybe there are better looking wheels now? Have not looked in a while.
The wheels on the base model are indeed hideous. But the performance trim comes with 20" wheels that actually look pretty nice:

https://snebulos.mit.edu/home/robg/pict ... heels2.jpg
I actually prefer the base model 18" wheels, it's that they cover the nice rims in those hideous "aero" covers.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:27 am
by squirm
The S uses the 18650, I would get the 3 with the newer 21700. If you got a S, who knows, Tesla may nerf your battery like there doing with some of the older S's.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:49 am
by Brianmcg321
Have you driven either. The model S is a full size car. It’s big. Lots of model S owners switched to the 3 just because of the size.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:53 am
by hunoraut
The S is a big car and drives like a big car.

That could be a pro or con depending on your preference.

Basically a grand tourer vs a sporty sedan. (I much prefer the latter)

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 11:02 am
by sjl333
Thanks all. Looks like the general consensus is the model 3p. I like the S looks more than the 3 , but seems like the 3 is more sporty and nimble.

My "friend" will be looking into getting one sometime early next year.

Thanks again .

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 12:06 pm
by drekce
I have a P3D. I drove the S85D prior to making the decision and it wasn't even close. The 3 is tight, hugs the road and handles very sporty. The S has an air suspension system that is "boaty."

The acceleration of the P3D beats almost every variant of the S except the most expensive one.

The 3 interior is sparse, but after a couple of weeks you will take to the screen and it will be natural.

You will giggle every time you hit the gas (battery?). The ONLY reasons why I would consider an S over a 3 is if you truly need the extra space, or if you want a longer battery.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 1:04 pm
by squirm
sjl333 wrote: Fri Aug 14, 2020 11:02 am Thanks all. Looks like the general consensus is the model 3p. I like the S looks more than the 3 , but seems like the 3 is more sporty and nimble.

My "friend" will be looking into getting one sometime early next year.

Thanks again .
I like the looks of the S too, but like I said the better batteries are in the 3 and Y. Have you looked at a Y?

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 1:09 pm
by Texanbybirth
I love me a nice big car. If money isn't an object, I'd get the new Model S with all the bells and whistles.

(With 4 kids I don't have that choice and would get the nicest model Y money could buy, but your "friend" isn't me!)

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 1:43 pm
by sjl333
squirm wrote: Fri Aug 14, 2020 1:04 pm
sjl333 wrote: Fri Aug 14, 2020 11:02 am Thanks all. Looks like the general consensus is the model 3p. I like the S looks more than the 3 , but seems like the 3 is more sporty and nimble.

My "friend" will be looking into getting one sometime early next year.

Thanks again .
I like the looks of the S too, but like I said the better batteries are in the 3 and Y. Have you looked at a Y?
Yes looked at the Y. Don't like the look.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 2:09 pm
by Kenkat
Bottom line, your friend is probably going to have to drive both cars. It’s easy to say “well, this is the one“ - and then you go drive one and in five minutes you say “nope”.

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Aug 14, 2020 2:14 pm
by alfaspider
The Model S is a large executive sedan (similar to a BMW 5/7 series), while the Model 3 is a compact sports sedan (similar to a BMW 3 series). The question is which type of car are you in the market for? Do you regularly have adults in the back seat, or are you mostly solo? (if the former, S) Will you be doing long road trips or trips around town? (if the former, S) Do you intend to track the car, or do you just want to accelerate fast (If the former, 3P)? Do you care about handling, or just straight line speed (if the former 3P).

While the Model S has seen several revisions, the Model 3 also has the benefit of being a newer model that allowed Tesla to apply many of its lessons learned over the years and apply newer technologies. On the other hand, the Model 3 is a bit sparse on the interior and doesn't have a traditional gauge cluster (may bother some people).

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2021 7:53 am
by wrongfunds
The next topic is Tesla Cybertruck purchase; the one after that is Model S Plaid

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2021 9:10 am
by sc9182
wrongfunds wrote: Fri Sep 17, 2021 7:53 am The next topic is Tesla Cybertruck purchase; the one after that is Model S Plaid
Does Tesla Roadster Topic comes in a future post !? :D

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2021 9:17 am
by RJC
Is there a different level of quality and service with a Model S vs 3?

I'm seeing some horrendous "within spec" issues with the Model Y (paint, panel alignment, etc.).

Re: Model S P100D or Model 3 performance?

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2021 9:43 am
by wrongfunds
sc9182 wrote: Fri Sep 17, 2021 9:10 am
wrongfunds wrote: Fri Sep 17, 2021 7:53 am The next topic is Tesla Cybertruck purchase; the one after that is Model S Plaid
Does Tesla Roadster Topic comes in a future post !? :D
Absolutely; I am also counting number of topics started vs number of topics locked. He might win that matrix too :-)