Tesla Model S vs Mercedes S-Class (VIDEO)

http://youtu.be/z87U8qVxNio

Motor Trend recently ran down a comparison between the Tesla Model S (specifically, the 2014 Tesla Model S P85+) and the Mercedes S-Class (specifically, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 4Mattic).

You should really just watch the video, but let’s run down some of the facts here in text for easier scanning and referencing. Some of the comparisons include:

• Weight: Model S = 4633 lbs | S-Class = 4911 lbs
• Torque: Model S = 443 lb-ft | S-Class = 516 lb-ft
• Horsepower: Model S = 416 | S-Class = 455
• 0 to 60 MPH: Model S = 3.9 sec | S-Class = 4.7 sec
• 1/4 mile: Model S = 12.5 sec | S-Class = 13.3 sec
• 60 to 0 MPH: Model S = 102 ft | S-Class = 108 ft
• MPG(e): Model S = 89 MPGe | S-Class = 19 MPG

Of course, this comparison was made with the P85+ rather than its replacement, the P85D. The P85D’s numbers are even much better.

The host discusses range anxiety, which is largely BS, especially when it comes to the Tesla, but how could he not throw it in there? It’s the dumb talking point that every mainstream car reporter is required to mention.

On the plus side, he highlights really well how awesome the Model S screen, software, and software updates. He also does well to note that the screen may actually annoy people who are not that into tech.

On the S-Class, the host highlights the extreme elegance and luxury of the vehicle, which there’s certainly no denying. Of course, like the high tech in the Model S, some people may not like the “rich person” feel of the S-Class… but most would. On the exterior, he also notes the obvious: the S-Class is not the hottest-looking, prettiest thing on the roads.

He also pointed out the absolutely pathetic fuel economy of the S-Class. He got something like 16 mpg on the way to work. That’s horrid compared to the Model S’s 89 MPGe.

Coming back to a point at the beginning: the S-Class is seeing better sales than the Audi A8, the BMW 7 Series, and the Jaguar XJ combined… but the Model S is seeing even better sales, despite very limited supply.

The host decided that the S-Class was slightly better. Of course, depending on your preferences and priorities, you could easily prefer the Model S. I certainly would choose the Model S over the S-Class without blinking.

In other words, I’d go with the free market on this one.

Also, I wouldn’t be surprised if the host, despite not seeming to care about fuel economy or use of gasoline at all, would change is mind and go with the Model S now that there’s the insane Tesla Model S P85D out there.

h/t Teslarati