Request a product

Tesla Model 3 (2017) vs Tesla Model S (2016)

Every spec side by side, from each maker's published figures.

Better figure, where one is clearly better

TeslaModel 3 (2017)TeslaModel S (2016)
Overview
ReleasedJuly 20172016
Performance
PowertrainElectricElectric
Power–315–605 bhp
0–62 mph4.6–5.6 s2.7–5.8 s
Top speed140–162 mph130–155 mph
Engine or motorsRear permanent-magnet synchronous motor; dual-motor configurations add a front induction motor. Later 2022–23 RWD power figures belong to the refreshed generation.Configuration power figures are from EV Database: 235 kW (60 and 75), 245 kW (60D), 350 kW (later 75D), 311 kW (90D), 345 kW (P90D), 397 kW (P90D Ludicrous) and 451 kW (100D), converted to bhp. Its P100D power is explicitly estimated and is omitted. These represent the listed configurations during their production periods, not a single launch specification.
GearboxSingle-speed fixed gearSingle-speed fixed gear
DriveRear-wheel drive (Standard Range Plus, RWD, Long Range RWD) or all-wheel drive (Long Range AWD, Performance)Rear-wheel drive on 60 and 75; front and rear motors with all-wheel drive on D versions
Range and charging
Zero-emission range (WLTP)254–348 miles–
Fastest charging170–250 kW120–145 kW
Range detailUK 2019–20 WLTP figures from exact EV Database records: Standard Range Plus 254 miles, Long Range AWD 348 miles and Performance 329 miles. These are distinct from later refreshed-generation ratings. Original US Long Range RWD uses EPA testing; no EPA figure is placed in the structured WLTP field.These versions use NEDC rather than WLTP. EV Database lists 249 miles (60), 254 miles (60D), 298 miles (75), 304 miles (75D), 557 km (90D), 509 km (P90D), 316 miles (P90D Ludicrous) and 393 miles (100D). No NEDC or estimated real-world range is placed in the WLTP comparison field.
ChargingEV Database lists 11 kW AC and up to 170 kW DC for UK Standard Range Plus, 250 kW DC for UK Long Range AWD and Performance. Battery usable-capacity estimates are omitted.Maximum DC charging figures are from EV Database: 120 kW for the listed 60–90 kWh configurations and 145 kW for 100D/P100D; output varies during charging. Tesla confirms that the 2016 60 and 60D had batteries upgradeable to 75 kWh by a paid software update. Model badges are not usable battery capacities, and EV Database’s estimated usable capacities are omitted.
CO2 emissions0 g/km–
Practicality
BodySaloonSaloon
Seats55
Length4,695 mm4,970 mm
Width1,850 mm1,964 mm
BootContemporary UK launch sources quote 542 litres combined luggage space; this includes front and underfloor storage, so it is not assigned to the seats-up rear boot field. The updated 2017–23 owner manual lists 561 litres rear plus 88 litres front for later cars; those figures belong to the refreshed-generation record.–
Size4,695 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, 1,445 mm high; 2,875 mm wheelbase; 11.6 m turning circle (Tesla owner manual; dimensions vary with options)Tesla’s historical 2012–2020 North American manual gives 4,970 mm length, 1,964 mm width without mirrors, 2,189 mm with mirrors and 2,960 mm wheelbase. Its software documentation is updated, so features must be checked against the vehicle’s build date and options.
Tech and safety
Infotainment15-inch centre touchscreen; no driver display; no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Cars built before approximately October 2020 lack the later heat pump according to Tesla’s North American manual.17-inch portrait centre touchscreen and a separate instrument display. The April 2016 hardware update included a new front fascia, adaptive headlights and access to optional HEPA filtration. Autopilot hardware and software differ by build date and purchased options.
Safety ratingEuro NCAP 5 stars (2019): adult occupant 96%, child occupant 86%, vulnerable road users 74%, safety assist 94%–

More comparisons