Tesla Model 3 Performance Competes Against BMW M3 CS and Mercedes C63 PHEV

FYI: The Tesla Model 3 Performance Rivals and Surpasses Major Performance Sedans in Drag Race

Tesla Model 3 Performance: A Silent Speedster

The Tesla Model 3 Performance, known for its electrifying acceleration, recently held its own in a quarter-mile drag race against two of the most powerful performance sedans in the market: the BMW M3 and the Mercedes-AMG C63. According to Jason Cammisa from Hagerty, these vehicles were put head-to-head, revealing some surprising results.

Performance Matchup: Vehicles in the Race

• Tesla Model 3 Performance:

  • Engine: Pure electric
  • Horsepower: 510 hp
  • Weight: 4,054 lbs
  • 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds
  • Quarter-mile time: 11 seconds at 122 mph

• BMW M3 CS:

  • Engine: Twin-turbocharged straight-six
  • Horsepower: 543 hp
  • Weight: 3,915 lbs
  • 0-60 mph: Below 3.2 seconds (with launch control)
  • Quarter-mile time: 10.9 seconds at 126 mph
• Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance:
  • Engine: Plug-in hybrid (combustion engine and electric motor)
  • Horsepower: 671 hp
  • Weight: Just over 4,600 lbs
  • 0-60 mph: Quicker than 3.3 seconds (with launch control)
  • Quarter-mile time: 11.2 seconds at 120 mph

Analyzing the Drag Race Results

First Race (with Launch Control):

• The BMW M3 CS, utilizing its launch control, dominated with a time of 10.9 seconds in the quarter-mile.
• Trailing closely, the Tesla Model 3 recorded an impressive 11-second finish.
• The Mercedes-AMG C63 came in third, clocking 11.2 seconds but visibly slower in comparison to its competitors.

Second Race (without Launch Control):

• Without launch control, the Model 3 demonstrated its quick acceleration, leaving the other two behind initially.
• The Mercedes-AMG C63 followed but was eventually overtaken by the M3 as it built boost, finishing second once more.
• The M3 CS, while slow off the line due to lack of boost, managed to close the gap somewhat by the end of the race.

Insights: Why The Tesla Model 3 Performance Stands Out

1. Consistent Performance: Unlike its combustion-engine counterparts, the Model 3 Performance doesn’t rely on launch control for explosive starts. This consistency in acceleration gives it a distinct edge in real-world scenarios.

2. No Weight Penalty: Usually, electric vehicles are heavier due to battery packs, but the Model 3’s weight is balanced well enough to compete effectively against lighter, high-powered sedans.

3. Cost Efficiency: The Model 3 Performance offers an exhilarating driving experience without the hefty price tags of its rivals. Despite being the least powerful on paper, its actual on-road performance is formidable.

Conclusion

The Tesla Model 3 Performance has proven that electric vehicles can not only match but also outpace some of the world’s most reputable performance sedans in straight-line speed. Its prowess in quick bursts, combined with cost-effective pricing and efficient acceleration mechanics, makes it a compelling choice among performance car enthusiasts.

For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.

William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi