Comment by Grombobulous
2 days ago
Dude this is crazy, kind of embarrassing if I’ll be honest.
There is no universe in which I would compare any Tesla model to an M3 or WRX.
First of all we should consider that their direct competitor the Ioniq 5 N is a better performance car.
The M3 finishes Willow Springs faster than the Model 3, so we can’t even go by raw performance. In track conditions the battery thermals and stock tires on the Model 3 can’t keep up.
Comparing the emotions you’re going to get from a V8 gurgling and thrashing through gears compared to a silent EV motor is just not even in the same league. The Ioniq 5 N actually does something about that and reviewers are impressed. They directly state that it is more fun than Tesla performance models.
Then your other problem is that the Model 3 performance looks identical to your uber driver’s car. Someone dropping $60k on a performance car wants to feel special. The trim and upholstery options on the M3 alone are more exciting than the Model 3.
The Ioniq 5 N is really good too. Track mode is such a great tool on the 3 that it gives it a clear edge.
I own a v8 (4.6 modular, baby), and it's lovely. Different driving experience, much less performance. I don't want an EV that's trying to compete with that experience, I want a machine that's honest about what it is.
I don't care how my car looks. I spend the money on performance. Bang for buck, the performance model 3 is maximum smiles per hour.