You are certainly correct. I would have had to see just how big the benefits were to shell out. I did get the original Chademo adapter, but Tesla made me disconnect it when I got the new battery (and I never really used it anyway). With the Chademo adapter probably on the track to fade into irrelevance, that might have been a waste too! My Roadster won't be low mileage when/if I sell. For 8.5 years (until a cell in my battery pack died), it was my 4 season car in VT (snow tires in the winter and my every day to work car). Now I don't put it through that torture, but with about 90K on it, I intend to drive it and get my money's worth and not let it be a hangar queen!
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hsull8915
Member
VIN 184 has 2 days left on BAT, bid currently at $83k
bringatrailer.com
2,800-Mile 2008 Tesla Roadster R80 3.0
Bid for the chance to own a 2,800-Mile 2008 Tesla Roadster R80 3.0 at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #125,136.
bringatrailer.com
RNM at $90,500.VIN 184 has 2 days left on BAT, bid currently at $83k
2,800-Mile 2008 Tesla Roadster R80 3.0
Bid for the chance to own a 2,800-Mile 2008 Tesla Roadster R80 3.0 at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #125,136.
hsull8915
Member
That auction is really interesting to me. To have 2,800 miles and a literally brand new R80 upgrade (installed September 2023), I thought for sure it would bring over $100k. My takeaway is that maybe prices are being driven by collectors that want to stash away cars with provenance (Founders/Signature series, Validation Prototypes, etc.), not enthusiasts that want to drive/share them with the world?
Onepointfive
Member
Why would a signature 100 sell for such a big premium over “normal” 1.5? It’s exactly the same car built at more or less the same time period give or take a few months. Elon probably added a couple of badges just so he can charge upfront for the car. I can understand paying a premium for special story / ownership history, but just for the sake of having badges? This makes zero sense to me. You don’t see anything like that in Porsche 911 pricing, for example. I believe this is a temporary arbitrage that smart buyers can take advantage of… what am I missing?
The Roadster is becoming valuable to collectors. They need to have one in order to fill out their collections. They are no longer just old cars.
Like with all collectables (coins, stamps, art, etc), things that make a particular item particularly unique or stand out tend to make them more valuable to those who want to have a collection. eg. a 1909 SVDB penny has no more copper in it than a 1960 S penny, yet, because it was minted in 1909, the first year for the Lincoln penny and was one of the few minted in San Francisco (the "S") and was one of the few that carried the designer's initials ("VDB"), it is worth a whole lot more.
There are only about a dozen founders series or VP Roadsters so they'll be more valuable than the 100 "Signature 100" ones. The 500 1.5's will probably be more valuable than the 2.0's and so forth. Those with other special features such as Factory custom colors or "Franz" specials, will also be more valuable than ordinary ones.
hsull8915
Member
I understand from a purely logical perspective where you are coming from, but I think it’s hyperbole to say that the only difference is some badges. I can put signature badges on any car but I can’t make that car one of the first 100 built if it wasn’t (using that number as a place holder here, I don’t think that’s exactly accurate). I also find it hard to believe that if I found some version of an older 911 that the first 100 made that year had special badging to commemorate some occasion (regardless of whether any mechanical differences existed), that those cars wouldn’t command a premium over the normal production run of that year. Just my 2 cents though, I have no evidence to back that feeling.
On the other hand I don’t disagree that most of what we are seeing with the short term pricing trend is a result of short/mid-term macro market conditions. I was just trying to pull some nuance from that auction since it differed quite a bit from the other recent Roadsters that have run through. I would be interested in others speculation on this topic though... Based on what else we've seen, how would that auction change if that 2008 1.5 with 2,800 miles and a brand new R80 upgrade was Signature number 008X instead of production number 0184?
It isn't just the badge. It is the VIN with only 2 least-significant digits. Even more is the fact that that particular car was paid for ($100K) by a visionary (or whacko?) in July or August of 2006. The risk was enormous since it was from a company who had never built a car before, using a technology that all of the automotive experts said wouldn't work.
Those first 100 cars had that. Later 1.5 cars only required about $30K downpayment, a much smaller risk although a whole lot more than recent Model 3, Y, or CT reservation costs.
beyond about VIN 450 was after Tesla had actually started delivering cars so they don't embody as much risk.
eHorses
Member
In general, I think we’re seeing a gun-shy “fun car” buyer due to the macro picture. In addition, there are more Roadsters listed for sale thru listing services and “send me an offer”. This has a negative affect on the supply and demand equation. However, I believe there are roadster buyers out there willing to set new sale records if their “right” car comes up for sale.
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eHorses
Member
Marketing to the car enthusiasts has a huge premium. Porsche is the poster child for doing this with their “Limited Edition” 911 releases. Often, the only different from normal 911 to LE are limited available paint colors and badging. They know how to play up to the egos of their buyers and collectors to be able to say “it’s 1 of XXX made” at cars and coffee.
agree, collectors want rare shiny/mint objects with a special story to tell.
Onepointfive
Member
Porsche “design” limited editions never sell at a premium. Take for example “911 Edition 50 Years Porsche Design” which is a targa gts with special badges that was announced in 2022. You can still get these new at MSRP… yet barley no one can get their hands on the recently announced 911s/t
eHorses
Member
This is the first time I’ve seen Hagerty list an OG roadster for auction. It’s a positive sign if ICE/Hagerty car collectors are more receptive to EVs as collectibles.
www.hagerty.com
Vin #478 is looking for a good home. Currently at 41k with less than 3hrs to go.
Description
Named after genius inventor Nikola Tesla, Tesla Motors, Inc. helped pioneer automobile lithium-ion battery technology upon their founding in California in 2003. With a heavy focus on the ideal automotive battery, Tesla chose not to start from scratch for the chassis itself but rather turned to famous British carmaker Lotus, specifically for the brilliant bonded extruded aluminum chassis from the Elise sports car. Tesla would soon place an order for 2,500 completed cars minus the powertrain which were shipped to California for final assembly and distribution by Tesla. Launched with a price of nearly $100,000, the Tesla Roadster was among the first to provied customers the experience of maximum instant torque which meant that zero to 60 miles per hour happened around 3.9 seconds, nearly a second quicker than the Elise. After its debut at the San Francisco Auto Show in November 2006, the first 100 cars were sold in just three weeks. Now one of the world’s most well-known automakers, Tesla has undoubtedly established itself as a pioneer in Electric Vehicles and remains the best-selling EV automaker.
As a single-owner example displaying merely a few thousand miles at the time of cataloging, this example provides customers with an unprecedented opportunity to acquire the car that started it all for Tesla. With the incredible success of the brand, these models, particularly single-owner low-mileage examples such as this Roadster provide not only a totally unique driving experience but also what many anticipate to be incredible future investment potential as predicted in Hagerty’s 2022 Bull Market List.
Highlights
Offered from single-family ownership with 5,453 miles at the time of cataloging
Protected by paint protection film from new in many crucial areas along the front fascia
The battery was replaced around 2015, current reading shows 85% battery life
Finished in a vibrant Very Orange exterior over a premium leather Orange interior complete with carbon fiber trim
Powered by a 248 horsepower electric motor
Impressive 2,690-pound curb weight, about 700 pounds of which consists of the battery pack mounted as low as possible in the center of the vehicle for optimum weight distribution
Professionally detailed prior to listing
Accompanied by a clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report
2008 Tesla Roadster Auction | Hagerty Marketplace
Check out the latest classic and collector car auctions from Hagerty Marketplace. See this 2008 Tesla Roadster today!
www.hagerty.com
Vin #478 is looking for a good home. Currently at 41k with less than 3hrs to go.
Description
Named after genius inventor Nikola Tesla, Tesla Motors, Inc. helped pioneer automobile lithium-ion battery technology upon their founding in California in 2003. With a heavy focus on the ideal automotive battery, Tesla chose not to start from scratch for the chassis itself but rather turned to famous British carmaker Lotus, specifically for the brilliant bonded extruded aluminum chassis from the Elise sports car. Tesla would soon place an order for 2,500 completed cars minus the powertrain which were shipped to California for final assembly and distribution by Tesla. Launched with a price of nearly $100,000, the Tesla Roadster was among the first to provied customers the experience of maximum instant torque which meant that zero to 60 miles per hour happened around 3.9 seconds, nearly a second quicker than the Elise. After its debut at the San Francisco Auto Show in November 2006, the first 100 cars were sold in just three weeks. Now one of the world’s most well-known automakers, Tesla has undoubtedly established itself as a pioneer in Electric Vehicles and remains the best-selling EV automaker.
As a single-owner example displaying merely a few thousand miles at the time of cataloging, this example provides customers with an unprecedented opportunity to acquire the car that started it all for Tesla. With the incredible success of the brand, these models, particularly single-owner low-mileage examples such as this Roadster provide not only a totally unique driving experience but also what many anticipate to be incredible future investment potential as predicted in Hagerty’s 2022 Bull Market List.
Highlights
Offered from single-family ownership with 5,453 miles at the time of cataloging
Protected by paint protection film from new in many crucial areas along the front fascia
The battery was replaced around 2015, current reading shows 85% battery life
Finished in a vibrant Very Orange exterior over a premium leather Orange interior complete with carbon fiber trim
Powered by a 248 horsepower electric motor
Impressive 2,690-pound curb weight, about 700 pounds of which consists of the battery pack mounted as low as possible in the center of the vehicle for optimum weight distribution
Professionally detailed prior to listing
Accompanied by a clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report
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eHorses
Member
Interesting RNM of $90,500.00. Identical RNM to last BaT result for Electric Blue (EB) even though vin #184 had a new 40k ESS.
Are buyers favoring the Very Orange exterior over EB?
Are buyers favoring the Very Orange exterior over EB?
hsull8915
Member
That’s got to have more to do with Hagerty vs Bringatrailer? That would be silly for Orange paint to justify the same premium as a brand new battery… right?!
Onepointfive
Member
About to list my very low mileage all black all original 1.5. Probably one of the best examples out there. Was planning on keeping it forever but circumstances have changed. If anyone is interested kindly pm me.
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eHorses
Member
RobsJester
Member
Hey all,
I am listing my 1.5 for sale, kindly PM me for information and additional pictures.
#453 Thunder Grey with Black Interior
April 2009 Build / CAC 123 / 40,950 miles
Clean Carfax
I've loved my Roadster for almost 8 years (previously owned fellow forum member @Roadster for two years). The 1.5 completed a full service at Medlock & Sons where I approved repairs on all concerns. The vehicle is currently with Carl in Seattle where Medlock & Sons can perform a pre-sale inspection (also, convenient if you want to add aftermarket parts or Carbon Fiber trim).
Medlock and Sons serviced and repaired all of the following :
• PEM : Refurbish Level 2
• Battery : Serviced and Replaced Sheet with Resistant Cells
• Suspension : Replaced Control Arm and Bushings
• Restored/Repaired : Soft Top Cables and stitching
• Annual Service
I am listing my 1.5 for sale, kindly PM me for information and additional pictures.
#453 Thunder Grey with Black Interior
April 2009 Build / CAC 123 / 40,950 miles
Clean Carfax
I've loved my Roadster for almost 8 years (previously owned fellow forum member @Roadster for two years). The 1.5 completed a full service at Medlock & Sons where I approved repairs on all concerns. The vehicle is currently with Carl in Seattle where Medlock & Sons can perform a pre-sale inspection (also, convenient if you want to add aftermarket parts or Carbon Fiber trim).
Medlock and Sons serviced and repaired all of the following :
• PEM : Refurbish Level 2
• Battery : Serviced and Replaced Sheet with Resistant Cells
• Suspension : Replaced Control Arm and Bushings
• Restored/Repaired : Soft Top Cables and stitching
• Annual Service
Attachments
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2011 Tesla Roadster
VIN: 5YJRE11xxxx001333
Mileage: 52,000 mi
Price: US $135,000
Racing Green 2.5 Base for sale in Burlingame, CA USA. Base cast rims, soft top, Visium top, Premium Beige int., infotainment pkg, mobile adapters, car covers. Seller states "Told by Carl Medlock (Roadster expert) that only 1 green 2.5 was built and this is it." Previously mentioned here.
VIN: 5YJRE11xxxx001333
Mileage: 52,000 mi
Price: US $135,000
Racing Green 2.5 Base for sale in Burlingame, CA USA. Base cast rims, soft top, Visium top, Premium Beige int., infotainment pkg, mobile adapters, car covers. Seller states "Told by Carl Medlock (Roadster expert) that only 1 green 2.5 was built and this is it." Previously mentioned here.
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2011 tesla roadster 2.5 electric for sale by owner - Burlingame, CA - craigslist.pdf
A quick correction and some addl. details on #453. While I was not the original owner of the car, I had the pleasure of meeting with @RobsJester years ago and saw the car in person. If memory serves me correctly, it was one of the first to receive the @titaniumdave slotted rotors and also have the QCP JdeMO DCFC kit installed – though I no longer see the charge port for the latter in the latest photos so perhaps it was removed.
RobsJester
Member
Sorry @Roadster ,
I had the wrong handle for the previous owner, it was @gwagen27, my apologies.
You have a very good memory, Tony took 453 to his shop in San Diego and QuickPower installed one of the very first JdeMO kits, it worked great (though I only used it twice to test the system, I never managed to take that epic long road trip in the Roadster where it would really come in handy). Medlock removed the JdeMO kit before they dropped the battery (the JdeMO should still be at Carl’s shop). I will sell the JdeMO separately after the sale of the car.
The upgraded slotted rotors were a game changer, I was super happy with the braking power after the upgrade. Definitely worth doing.
I had the wrong handle for the previous owner, it was @gwagen27, my apologies.
You have a very good memory, Tony took 453 to his shop in San Diego and QuickPower installed one of the very first JdeMO kits, it worked great (though I only used it twice to test the system, I never managed to take that epic long road trip in the Roadster where it would really come in handy). Medlock removed the JdeMO kit before they dropped the battery (the JdeMO should still be at Carl’s shop). I will sell the JdeMO separately after the sale of the car.
The upgraded slotted rotors were a game changer, I was super happy with the braking power after the upgrade. Definitely worth doing.
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