By: Otaiba Ahsan
If you’ve driven a Tesla before, then you know they have incredible acceleration thanks to the electric motor system allowing for instant torque. In other words, there’s no gear shifting so the vehicle is much more efficient. A lot of owners I talk to know their cars can go fast, but aren’t really aware of the true numbers themselves. So, how fast can your Tesla go? Continue reading for more.
Before You Read
Before we look at each model of the Tesla, let’s set out some guidelines to make this an easier read. We’ll be looking at each available trim for all the models and will provide both the 0 to 60 mph time, as well as the top speed.
These numbers will be based on what’s currently stated on Tesla’s site for their brand-new 2024 models, and are therefore subject to change over time. For the most up-to-date numbers, visit the Tesla site. Now that we’ve got all that out of the way, let’s dive in!
Model 3
The Model 3 is the common entry point for many electric vehicle (EV) adopters who are looking for a Tesla. Currently, there are three trims available, and here’s how their speed breaks down:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (Single Motor): The cheapest Tesla still boasts a respectable 0 to 60 mph of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph.
- All-Wheel Drive (Dual Motor): Often referred to as the Model 3 “Highland” after its design refresh, this trim can get you from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and can go up to 125 mph as well.
- Performance (Dual Motor): The fastest and most expensive of the bunch, the Performance trim has a 0 to 60 mph of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 162 mph.
Model Y
This crossover SUV still remains the most popular and best-selling vehicle for Tesla around the world. Like the Model 3, there are three trims that you can choose from, here’s how fast they can go:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (Single Motor): This has the slowest acceleration among all Tesla vehicles, boasting a 0 to 60 mph of 6.6 seconds but a top speed of 135 mph.
- All-Wheel Drive (Dual Motor): An extremely popular trim which has a 0 to 60 mph of 4.8 seconds and can go up to 135 mph also.
- Performance (Dual Motor): Lastly, the zippiest of all three options with a lightning 0 to 60 mph of 3.5 seconds and a speed that tops out at 155 mph.
Model S
The extremely polished, flagship Tesla was the first for many owners who were able to get their hands on it during the early days of the company. Available in two trims, here are the numbers:
- All-Wheel Drive (Dual Motor): The baseline trim for this car is a beast, with a 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.
- Plaid (Tri-Motor): This is the fastest production car currently available, with an official 0 to 60 mph of 1.99 seconds. The Plaid Model S tops its speed out at an outstanding 200 mph!
Model X
The luxurious full-sized SUV is iconic for its falcon wing doors. Don’t let its size fool you though because this car can go fast. It’s available in two trims, here’s how the numbers look:
- All-Wheel Drive (Dual Motor): The entry-level trim can get you a more than respectable 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 149 mph.
- Plaid (Tri-Motor): This is the most expensive vehicle on the list, but can get you from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and tops out at 149 mph.
The Bottom Line
So, how fast can your Tesla go? The Model 3 and Y provide incredible speed and acceleration when compared to similarly priced vehicles. Moreover, the Model S and X have next-level speed numbers, with the Model S Plaid still holding the title of the fastest production car.