Tesla Model 3 Performance Horsepower: Wrap Up
So, Tesla doesnt disclose the horsepower figure of the Model 3 Performance on their site. Estimates suggest that it has around 450 horsepower, but there have been dyno tests that prove the Model 3 Performance makes 522 horsepower and 650lb-ft of torque.
While not the most powerful or fastest car that Tesla makes, the Model 3 Performance seems to offer the best value. Its the third fastest car in the current 2022 Tesla range, only being beaten by the Plaid version of the Model S and Model X.
It also beats the standard Model S in top speed. And it beats Model Y Performance as well, largely because of the size and weight of the Model Y. The cherry on the cake is that the Model 3 Performance is still the cheapest of the bunch.
Theres more to the car than just power and straight-line performance though. The Model 3 Performance is often regarded as the best Tesla for the driving enthusiast and is the EV darling of many automotive journalists. Its powerful motor, compact size, and less weight make it more engaging to drive.
Additionally, it has Track Mode which enhances the traction control system for a better driving experience on the track. While the Model 3 Performance doesnt have the Ludicrous launch setting, Track Mode currently exists exclusively in the Model 3 Performance.
Top 5 Fastest Tesla Models
The Model S Plaid is the fastest Tesla money can buy. But if you think its a little too much money, here are the top 5 fastest Teslas that you can consider, sorted by top speed:
Even though the Model 3 is the entry-level model and is the cheapest of the bunch, the Performance trim still takes third place out of the entire Tesla lineup. It has the same acceleration as the standard Model S, but it has a higher top speed.
Side note, Teslas lineup is now much simpler. All of the cars now come with a Long Range battery as standard, except for the base Model 3. And gone are the P85 and P100D performance models.
Instead, its either the standard car or performance version and thats it. This makes it less confusing for customers trying to pick out a Tesla, and easier for us journalists to write about them.
Safety & Driver Assistance Tech: 15/15
The Model 3 earns a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety .
On the active-safety front, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warnings, side collision warnings, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings with lane keep assist and a very smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control system are all standard as part of Teslas Autopilot suite. Standard Autopilot is exceptionally good, but similar systems are found on many other cars now, including millions of Kias, Hondas and Subarus.
While these features add up to Level 2 autonomy, Tesla offers two additional packages on top of them. Enhanced Autopilot adds Navigate on Autopilot, which functions a bit like GMs Super Cruise or Hyundais Highway Driving Assist, adding the ability for the vehicle to guide itself on highways from on-ramp to off-ramp. It also includes auto lane change, Autopark, Summon and Smart Summon, similar to some features found at Lexus, Genesis and others.
The second package is the $12,000 Full Self-Driving option, which includes traffic light recognition and limited off-highway autonomy. We must emphatically stress that Full Self-Driving and Autopilot ARE NOT fully autonomous systems and should not be treated as such. Since FSD is still not fully cooked, costs a fortune and isnt actually what it says it is, we cant recommend that option.
Alex Kwanten
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Kw And Hp The Conversion
Before starting, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the conversion between the unit of measurement of power officially recognized in physics and engineering by the so-called International System , with the one to which we are historically more used to – horsepower . The simplest thing is to remember that 100 kW 136 HP , or 1 kW 1.36 HP.
How Much Power Should The Tesla Model 3 Performance Have

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is available in three trim levels. However, the one were looking at today is the top Performance trim. The Performance starts at a fairly expensive $55,990 without options. If you factor in all of the available options, youll pay around $67,990. For this, you get an EV that can hit 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 162 mph.
According to GuideAutoWeb, the Tesla Model 3 develops a combined output of 480 hp. 283 hp comes from the rear electric motor, while 197 hp comes from the front motor. According to Charoudins video, the Model 3 should produce around 450 hp from the factory. Unfortunately, Tesla does not publicly state how much horsepower this specific trim level develops, so take these figures with a grain of salt.
Regardless, even if these Tesla Model 3 estimates are accurate, the EV manages to surpass them easily.
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Tesla Model 3 Features Interior And Technology
Tesla is a class leader in tech and the Model 3 is no exception. The Model 3 comes equipped with an impressive amount of technology as well as creature comforts as standard. Even the base model cars get heated seats, GPS navigation, wireless charging, as well as Tesla’s infamous driver assist system, Autopilot. Tesla is often criticized as overselling the capability of Autopilot. However, the system constantly receives rave reviews from its loyal following. If the lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and auto braking of standard Autopilot aren’t enough, drivers can opt for Enhanced Autopilot. This option allows the ability to navigate while on autopilot, including allowing your Model 3 to change lanes on its own. Buyers can also use Enhanced Autopilot to auto park and to summon the Model 3 from it’s parking spot remotely. If Enhanced Autopilot isn’t quite enough, Tesla will also include Full Self Driving for an additional $15,000. This option gives the Model 3 all the previously mentioned capabilities, as well as the ability to detect traffic signals, giving the customer the closest thing to a self-driving car that’s currently available to the public.
Which Tesla Model 3 Is The Best
The standard Tesla Model 3 is currently the cheapest Tesla on sale with a price tag of around $40k, making it an attractive choice for those who would like a Tesla but cannot afford the more expensive model.
If youâre in it for the range, then youâll want to choose the Long Range model with 353 miles per charge, a 35% jump from the Standardâs range. If you want the best possible version of the Tesla Model 3, then you should choose from the Long Range model. At a $10K price increase over the entry-level version, the battery adds an additional 90 miles. With one of the longest EV ranges available, the Long Range model is the preferred option.
But, if money isnât an issue, then the Performance model is the way to go. The vehicleâs performance is on par with a Mercedes-AMG C63 and a BMW M3. The highest trim model also tauts a speedy acceleration of 162mph. Additionally, this beastly vehicle bolsters standard 20-inch wheels, performance brakes, lowered suspension, and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler. The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the first Tesla to include a Track mode that improves cooling and regenerative braking, torque vectoring, and relaxed stability control.
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Tesla Model Y Performance
The Tesla Model Y Performance is based on the Tesla Model 3 and starts at $67,990. It can be purchased for a monthly installment of $1,006 at 3.74% APR for 72-month and with a down payment of $4,500. The electric crossover can also be leased from the company starting at $839/month for 36-month with a down payment of $4,500. The lease car comes with an annual mileage cap of 10,000 miles. Irrespective of the above two options you choose a $250 additional order fee that needs to be paid which is non-refundable.
Tesla Model Y Performance |
|
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0-60 MPH |
3.5 sec |
The Model Y Performance gets a dual electric motor setup whose combined power output hasnt been revealed by the company yet. As per EPA, the Model Y Performance offers a range of 303 miles on a full charge. As for the performance, the EV can do 0-60 MPH in 3.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 MPH as per Tesla. While if it is equipped with the $1,000 optional towing hitch then it is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Kia Ev6 Vs Tesla Model 3 Range
It’s the key spec for all-electric drivers. But, to start the EV6 vs. Model 3 range comparison, we must note that the EV6 is not yet EPA rated. So, these EV6 figures will be targeted predictions by the manufacturer based on WLTP testing standards. Moving on to Tesla, the Model 3 has three variants: Standard Range Plus, Long Range, and Performance. The Standard Range trim delivers an EPA-estimated 262 miles of range, the Long Range trim delivers an EPA-estimated 353 miles of range, and the Performance trim gives an EPA-estimated 315 miles of range.
On the EV6 side of things, a range of 300 miles1 is expected to accompany it and is likely to happen based on the 316-mile WLPT estimated range. What also will accompany it is 800V DC Fast Charging capabilities a world first that the Model 3 is not capable of. Better still, the EV6 will be able to charge other electric cars. It won’t be exceptionally efficient, but it’s a feature that sets the EV6 apart with unique functionality. Before we move on, here are some key figures in the 2022 Kia EV6 vs. Tesla Model 3 comparison:
KIA EV6
Up to 353 miles |
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Power: Instantaneous And Continuous
In short, in internal combustion engines, the maximum power is always available until the fuel runs out. In electric cars, on the other hand, the battery cannot deliver peak power for too long without stressing its internal components, compromising its integrity over time and diminishing its charge. For this reason, the ECE R85 type-approval standard defines maximum net power as that which – quoted verbatim – “a powerplant is capable of delivering, on average, within 30 minutes”.
Volvo Ex90 And Tesla Model X’s Other Pros And Cons
There are other points to consider when pitting Volvo’s seven-seater EV against Tesla’s. In terms of charging speeds, the EX90 can recharge from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes, while Tesla claims its cars give 200 more miles after a quick 15-minute charge using the Supercharger infrastructure. When it comes to the center console, the EX90’s fixed 14.5-inch portrait-oriented screen does seem lacking when compared to the Model X’s wider 17-inch tilting infotainment display.
Of course, the American automaker’s controversial transition to Tesla Vision deprives the Model X of utilizing the more sophisticated LiDAR system found on the EX90, and the lack of 5G connectivity out of the box gives it less future-proofing as well. As for pricing, the 2024 Volvo EX90 is expected to be below $80,000, which brings a lot of value considering the space, safety, and tech it’s offering. Meanwhile, the Model X already costs over $120,000, and that’s just the base model — its Plaid variant kicks things up a notch. Overall, the EX90 sounds like the best choice for buyers who value practicality, safety, and convenience for less, while the Model X is angled toward those who prefer speed and a little bit of everything else, but for a lot more.
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Tesla Model 3 Performance
First, an overview of the Tesla Model 3 Performance and other trims in the lineup. The Model 3 is one of the best-selling electric cars right now, and Tesla currently offers three different versions of the 2022 Model 3:
There are also smaller differences, mainly with the wheels and interior. The Performance gets the 20-inch Überturbine wheels, while the others can come with either 18-inch or 19-inch wheels. The standard rear-wheel drive version also comes with what Tesla calls a partial premium interior, whilst the other two have a fully premium interior.
Prices start at a very reasonable $46,990. But if you want the Performance model, youre going to have to pay around $63,000. Of course, the main question is whats the Tesla Model 3 Performance horsepower figure? How much power are you getting for that nearly $16,000 premium?
Tesla Model 3 Pricing And Availability

As we write this, wait time for a 2023 Tesla Model 3 is up to 3 months per the online ordering system. As mentioned, the Model 3 Long Range is currently not available for order. Pricing starts at $48,490 for a standard Model 3 and $62,990 for the Model 3 Performance. A fully loaded Model 3 Performance can go up to $80,990, plus a charger if you don’t already have a place to charge your new Tesla.
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How Do You Test An Ev On A Dyno
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Since the Tesla Model 3s design has aerodynamics and efficiency as its main priorities, it takes some preparation to get it on the dyno. In Charoudins video, the team takes off some of the EVs under panels first. This is so straps can hold the car in place as it does its runs on the dyno.
Since the Tesla Model 3 doesnt need airflow to cool down an engine, the large fan that cars typically need on the dyno isnt necessary in this case. Regardless, Charoudin opted to run the EV with and without the fan to compare results.
One of the final and most important parts of this Tesla Model 3 test is engaging a hidden dyno mode. In short, the mode turns off all safety features and any systems that could hinder performance on a dyno. Last year, the brand issued an update to remove it, however as Charoudin shows, the mode is still there, just hidden in plain sight.
During the first run without dyno mode engaged, the EV began to steer itself off the dyno. As a result, activating it is necessary to conduct a safety test.
Is The Tesla Model 3 Performance Really Faster Than A Nissan Gt
The Model 3 and the GT-R went up against each other twice. The difference was that in the first run, the GT-R was running in Street tune and in the second run, in the Race tune. Irrespective of that, the Model 3 sprinted off the line leaving the GT-R far behind. The latter could cover up only after hitting the 110 mph mark. The timings arent visible in the video, but the owner of the GT-R posted them in the comments section
The GT-R owner said the car had issues shifting from fourth gear to the fifth in the second run. In fact, it had to get off the strip due to heat issues. However, this Model 3 Performance is said to have completed around 20 runs that night. Quite ironic because EVs are generally more prone to heat issues.
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Volvo Ex90 Vs Tesla Model X: Three
Will the Volvo EX90, with its spacious seven-seater cabin and cutting-edge tech, give the Tesla Model X a run for its money? The Volvo EX90 was unveiled, boasting a plethora of high-tech features, making it perhaps one of the most advanced electric SUVs the Swedish automaker has ever made. From oodles of sensors capable of giving it full autonomy to a design that screams Volvo’s trademark safety-first philosophy, the EX90 is lining itself up as a strong competitor in a market brimming with EV alternatives.
Among its closest competition is Tesla’s top-of-the-line SUV — the Model X — which won’t be doing the EX90 any favors given its blistering performance and tech features that are just as competent, if not better. Both of these full-sized electric SUVs can accommodate seven people, drive over 300 miles on a charge, and have enough tech to make older gas guzzlers feel ancient. As the longest-range electric SUV in Volvo’s lineup, the 2024 EX90 is already offering a lot for its asking price. That said, can the Tesla Model X come up with enough to justify its steeper price?
Tesla Model 3 Performance Vs Rivals
Of course, Tesla doesnt exist in a vacuum there are plenty of other cars that you can buy and will give the Tesla Model 3 a run for its money. Although it has to be said that rivals of similar performance are typically more expensive.
For example, the Porsche Taycan 4S also has around 520 horsepower. But prices start at just a little over $100,000, making it significantly more expensive than the Model 3 Performance.
Meanwhile, similarly-priced EVs such as the Polestar 2 and the Kia EV6 are still significantly slower than Tesla. They need around 4 seconds to reach 60mph. And their top speed cant go past 125mph.
Say what you want about Tesla, but theyre ahead of the rest of the industry when it comes to electric powertrains. Rimac seems to be the only one that can rival Tesla when it comes to raw performance, but they make cars in a completely different segment.
However, there is one car that can rival the Model 3 Performance for around the same price: the BMW i4 M50. Its a little aesthetically challenged, thanks to that front grille. But the i4 M50 has similar performance: 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds, a top speed of 140mph. And costs around $68,000.
Spoiler alert: despite what the figures suggest, the BMW can beat the Tesla in a drag race. This is likely thanks to the BMWs higher horsepower figure, which is around 530 horsepower. Its a small difference, but it can certainly show that difference in a drag race.
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