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Model 3 vs S

Discussion in 'Model S' started by Mangmm62, Jan 9, 2021.

  1. Mangmm62

    Mangmm62 Member

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    I have narrowed my choices between a 2017 Model S or a 2020 Model 3. This is my first Tesla. Features are the same. I got the FSD on both. Any ideas on which is a better choice?
     
  2. SabrToothSqrl

    SabrToothSqrl Active Member

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    the S.
     
    • Like x 2
    • Disagree x 1
  3. Thp3

    Thp3 Member

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    Michigan
    The Model 3.

    newest construction tech ( Munro videos on YouTube). Should last the longest.

    best back seats for friends.

    front seats comparable, individual choice as to preference

    much better display, heating, vent fan, get premium sound - awesome.

    most sporty driving.
     
    • Like x 2
  4. emmz0r

    emmz0r Senior Software Engineer

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    Depends. is it a 75D or a 100D.is the S upgraded to MCU2?
    What model 3 is it?
    literally no details
     
    • Like x 2
  5. OLEE

    OLEE Member

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    I realize this is a personal preference. For me, I prefer my 2017 model S75 RWD uncorked with air suspension over 2018 model 3 LR RWD. Much smoother and quieter ride. Shorter range does not bother me since I drive only locally. I don’t know how 2020 model 3 compares to 2018 model 3.
     
  6. aprusan

    aprusan Member

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    I have both cars: we bought models S in 2018 and then realized that the Tesla concept (EVs) makes so much sense, we bought a model 3 for my 60 mile each way commute.while the S has nicer trim (wood edge dash,Alcantera ,etc.) the main thing about a Tesla is the tech ,these are not "luxury" vehicles.The minimalist layout and newest tech (your phone is your key )simpler easier to use autopilot etc. makes the model 3 my choice.Also ,the 3 handles like a sports coupe, the S is like a longish Jaguar/sports sedan.The rear seat has less legroom than the S but its worth it to get a newer 3. We recently traded the S away for a Y.
     
    • Like x 3
  7. SilverGS

    SilverGS Active Member

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    Personally I prefer an S. I made a video comparing both

     
  8. dc121gw

    dc121gw Member

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    Atlanta
    The answers to this question are going to change according to which forum you post them to, and is mostly subjective.

    Both have their fans. Drive both and decide for yourself. If you are planning to trade in 5 years or less, a 4 year old car will depreciate less than a 1 year old car.
     
    • Like x 1
  9. ucmndd

    ucmndd Well-Known Member

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    The one you decide you want.
     
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    • Love x 1
  10. emailforbrett

    emailforbrett Member

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    If you figure it out, let me know. I am in the same boat, except either the S Perf or the 3 Perf will be new. I am having a hard time justifying $45k for a quicker 0-60 of about a half a second. I like the looks of the S more than the 3, but again, $45k difference. That is a large number to justify. I am waiting to see if the S is “refreshed” after the plant reopens, and if so:

    1. Will it drive the price down on the “Used/Demo” 2020/2021 S’s for sale in inventory to decrease that $45k spread. I can justify about a $20k price difference if that happens and I’d jump on an inventory car.

    2. Will the refresh 2021 S be compellingly better than the 3 to justify the $45k (or whatever the higher refresh price may go to.)

    I have a few months to decide so I’m waiting on Elon to show his cards.
     
  11. ChadS

    ChadS Last tank of gas: March 2009

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    The S has twice the cargo space, but given you are still considering the 3, I assume that is not a factor.

    There's not much else that's a "must-have" in the S. But it does have more space and creature comforts, and is better on longer trips.

    The 3, while noisier and a rougher ride, has better handling and being smaller it is easier to park.

    For me, I prefer my 3 for most of my regular fairly short around-town trips. But for road trips and even just longer rides, I preferred my old S. So for me, I'd say which car to buy depends on what kind of drives you tend to take. And how much you relatively value sportiness and comfort.

    In my case, my wife (who values comfort more) has an X so I (who values sportiness more) get to drive my fun 3 most of the time, but when we need to haul something or drive further, we take the X. The best of both worlds.
     
    • Like x 1
  12. Mangmm62

    Mangmm62 Member

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    I don’t know. This is all that I know. If this doesn’t say where can I go to find out.

    5270E4E3-ED67-4C25-B071-80F8BB9DBE25.png
     
  13. Mangmm62

    Mangmm62 Member

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    Is there a link to the video?
     
  14. Mangmm62

    Mangmm62 Member

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    3F6A5E2F-3054-4019-A8E1-FF4A2C7C5894.png
     
  15. 46&2

    46&2 Member

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    Location:
    Switzerland
    Go for the S LR+ and spent less. Equally quick, better car. As you are one lovong the S more, in general.
     
  16. 46&2

    46&2 Member

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    Oh, and a thing for the thread starter: is cargo space and accessability of the trunk of any relevance for you?

    I was thinking about changing from an S to the 3. Concerned, not sure whether I could live with thatnarrow back opening. Seen in person... more thinking...

    I ended up getting one over the weekend from Tesla, drive it home and trying to fit a few things in. Went back. Happy with my S, neber looked back ;)
     
    • Like x 1
  17. Wratran

    Wratran Member

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    Dallas
    Model 3 is plain ugly...does not have the curve line of a sport cars...look like a family sedan
     
    • Funny x 1
  18. emmz0r

    emmz0r Senior Software Engineer

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    2017 75 RWD? Were there even RWD S in 2017 hmmm.. oh well.

    Get the S if
    • If you need more cargo space
    • regularly drive 4+ persons
    • don't drive far (town car)
    • Need air suspension for extra clearance and comfort
    • comfort is #1, it's a bit better than 3.

    Get the 3 if you
    • need to go far
    • want newest tech with newest updates
    • fast charging
    • preserve value over time easier (model S is getting old)
    • cabin noise is not a big issue
    • 4 wheel drive

    Personally I would buy a new 3 LR if that S was the option.
    I had an S75D before, Now I have 2021 Model 3 Performance.
     
    • Informative x 1
  19. emailforbrett

    emailforbrett Member

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    Dec 22, 2020
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    Well now you’re going the wrong direction in 0-60. The S LR+ is a half second less quick to 60 than the 3P. Can’t do that. The 0-60 is important to me. (The impractical teenager trapped inside me coming out)
     
  20. SilverGS

    SilverGS Active Member

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    Just click on that pic in my post. The pic itself is linked to the video.
     

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