Welcome to Tesla Motors Club
Discuss Tesla's Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, Cybertruck, Roadster and More.
Register

Thoughts on a used Model S

This site may earn commission on affiliate links.
Hey guys,

I'm looking into purchasing a used Model S and want to hear from current owners with a 2014 or 2015 Model S. I'm trying to decide between a 2014 P85+ or a 2015 85D. The listed prices are the same and the upgrades are similar, but the main differences are:
2014: performance model, air suspension, low mileage (51000 miles) but 1 year older (4 yrs remaining for warranty)
2015: AWD, more mileage (68000 miles) but 5 years remaining for warranty

While I'm leaning more towards the 2015 because of AWD and the warranty, would the performance package, air suspension be worth it? I don't think I would need the performance. I'm thinking mileage isn't as much a factor compared to gasoline engines. For electric vehicles it's the battery degradation that is more important.

Is a Model S a car that you would keep for about 10 years or more?

Any thoughts?

Cheers!
 
you should drive them both. that should answer all of your questions. Does the 2014 have autopilot? perhaps that could make the decision for you. In the end I don't see how you can go wrong, it is a win-win choice. Best of luck deciding.
Yes, both have autopilot and subzero weather package. I'll probably head to the dealership to test drive, it's a about 1.5hrs away so it's got to be this weekend.

Thanks davidc18
 
I bought a CPO 2015 85D with AP1 last year....haven't regretted it a bit. However, when I have had the occasion to drive a P85/P85D, the acceleration difference is noticeable. I haven't driven the + suspension version, but those that have it say it is a must - but from what I read it is definitely a sportier (stiffer?) feel/handling. I don't have the air suspension, just coil, and it is still an unbelievably smooth ride. Not sure of the wheel size you would be getting, but I did notice a little more of the road imperfections when I switched from the 19s to the 21s (will switch back ton 19s for the winter).

I also don't know that the mileage difference between the two is that substantial, given the notion that EVs don't 'wear down' at the same rate traditional ICE vehicles.

I agree, I think your best bet is the test drive to see which one you prefer the feel of yourself.
And welcome (in advance) to the Tesla club!!
 
Also consider how much range each has on a full charge. If the previous owners treated their battery packs well (only charging to ~80% most of the time, for example), that'll make a bigger difference than the age of the car or how many miles it has. You can't go wrong either way.
 
Thanks for all the advice everyone. Unfortunately the 85D was already sold as of last night. I'm going to stick with looking for another for another AWD. A couple pieces of advice I've heard on other places was to contact a Tesla Pre-owned specialist as they may have a list of the a true used inventory than the few listed on the website. Also, a late 2016 might be preferable as it has AutoPilot 2.0.