A few weeks ago, I test drove a new Long range 3 back to back with a new S (100D). Objectively the 3 was better in almost every way listed above. The lack of the cluster didn't bother me, and there aren't actually many (useful) things you can do with S's extra steering wheel buttons (they missed the boat on offering useful media controls).
That being said, I've been in love with S since it was introduced in 2012. Just think it's one of the nicest looking cars you can buy. Also really like the hatchback. And (mainly) for that purely emotional reason*, I'll likely get a used S instead of a 3. The S also had a more "German car" feel (likely owing to the heft and Mercedes switchgear) which is something I"m used to and prefer.
The sales associate clearly favored the 3 and was trying to steer me toward one. When he asked me for my impressions, I realized I didn't have any good reason for preferring the S but still wanted one.
*Not entirely true: I don't like that the Model 3 comes with mandatory fake leather. As nice as it feels, fake leather always makes my back sweat profusely on longer drives. With a used S (pre Aug 17 I believe), you can still get real leather (or cloth). And, they also can be had with opening sunroofs (even some leftover inventory models have this feature) which is something else I prefer. Finally, my wife is a die-hard satellite radio fan, so getting a car without that feature would piss her off (can't get it w/ a 3). Also was hard to tell on a quick test drive but I think the S had less wind noise.
That being said, I've been in love with S since it was introduced in 2012. Just think it's one of the nicest looking cars you can buy. Also really like the hatchback. And (mainly) for that purely emotional reason*, I'll likely get a used S instead of a 3. The S also had a more "German car" feel (likely owing to the heft and Mercedes switchgear) which is something I"m used to and prefer.
The sales associate clearly favored the 3 and was trying to steer me toward one. When he asked me for my impressions, I realized I didn't have any good reason for preferring the S but still wanted one.
*Not entirely true: I don't like that the Model 3 comes with mandatory fake leather. As nice as it feels, fake leather always makes my back sweat profusely on longer drives. With a used S (pre Aug 17 I believe), you can still get real leather (or cloth). And, they also can be had with opening sunroofs (even some leftover inventory models have this feature) which is something else I prefer. Finally, my wife is a die-hard satellite radio fan, so getting a car without that feature would piss her off (can't get it w/ a 3). Also was hard to tell on a quick test drive but I think the S had less wind noise.
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