Elon used to argue that the Model S was a luxury car that also happened to be an EV, so does the same line of thinking apply to the M3? Obviously everyone on this forum is at least partly interested in the Model 3 because it is an EV, but what if it was an ICE vehicle instead? Would the ICE M3 still be a compelling car for you?
To test this idea let's configure the base Model 3 with a color other than black, and then add 19" wheels, PUP, AP, and destination charge, which should make the price around $49,500. Now assume for the moment that the M3 is and ICE vehicle rather than an EV but has the same performance specs, curb appeal, trunk space, and interior volume and design as the current Model 3, how would it compare with BMW's, Mercedes, Lexus, Porsche, and others configured in the same way and at a similar price point?
I think the Model 3 compares very well with top ICE cars like the BMW M3 and Porsche Cayman. Even those cars can not match the Model 3 specs for acceleration, handling, passenger room and cargo space. They also have conventional interiors instead of the futuristic and esthetically pleasing interior of the Model 3.
Also, no EV benefits like instant pedal response, one-pedal driving, lack of noise or emissions. On top of that, you still have to go to gas stations just to keep them moving. How primitive!
GSP