Tesla Model Y Performance Vs. Long Range

: Speed or Efficiency?

Choosing between the Tesla Model Y Performance and Long Range? Here's what you need to know:

• Long Range: More efficient, longer range, smoother ride, cheaper
• Performance: Faster acceleration, higher top speed, sportier handling

Quick Comparison:

Feature	Long Range	Performance
Range	316 miles	280 miles
0-60 mph	4.6 seconds	3.7 seconds
Top Speed	135 mph	155 mph
Price	$54,190	$62,190
Best For	Daily driving, road trips	Speed enthusiasts

The Long Range is the smart choice for most buyers, offering better efficiency and value. But if you crave speed and don't mind paying extra, the Performance model delivers thrills. Both qualify for the federal EV tax credit, potentially saving you up to $7,500.

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Specs Comparison

Let's compare the Tesla Model Y Performance and Long Range models. They might look alike, but their specs tell a different story.

Speed vs. Distance

The main difference? Performance focuses on speed, Long Range on distance.

Spec	Performance	Long Range
Power	490 hp	389 hp
Torque	660 Nm	510 Nm
0-100 km/h	3.7 s	4.9 s
Top Speed	250 km/h	219 km/h
Range (WLTP)	514 km	533 km
Price	€62,190	€54,990

The Performance model packs a punch with 490 hp, while the Long Range has 389 hp. This means the Performance zips from 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, compared to 4.9 seconds for the Long Range.

But here's the twist: the Long Range goes further. It offers 533 km of range, beating the Performance's 514 km. That extra 19 km could make a difference on long trips.

Both models share some key features:

• 81 kWh battery pack
• 11.5-hour charging time on a 240V outlet
• 3.8 EPA miles/kWh efficiency

So why the higher price for the Performance? It comes with:

• Better brakes
• Lower suspension
• 21-inch wheels (Long Range has 19-inch)
• Track mode for better handling

In short: Performance for speed, Long Range for distance. Your choice depends on what you value more.

Performance Model Details

The Model Y Performance takes the Long Range and kicks it up a notch. Here's what makes it special:

Speed and Handling

This thing is FAST:

Spec	Value
0-60 mph	3.5 seconds
Top Speed	155 mph
Quarter Mile	11.9 seconds

That's supercar territory. How? Dual-motor AWD with 503 hp and 494 lb-ft of torque.

It's not just quick in a straight line. At the Autozeitung track, it lapped in 1:41.60 - way faster than the Long Range's 1:45.40.

What's Different?

The Performance model gets:

• Better brakes (60-0 mph in 108 feet)
• Lower suspension
• 21-inch wheels
• Track Mode

But it'll cost you. Starting price: $51,490 - about $7k more than the Long Range.

Heads up: The sportier setup means a bumpier ride.

It's also a bit thirstier:

Model	Energy Use
Performance	17.3 kWh/100 km
Long Range	16.9 kWh/100 km

Still, you get 319 miles of range (WLTP).

"The Model Y Performance's rapid acceleration, high handling limits and quick steering check off the 'fun-to-drive' boxes." - Edmunds

Bottom line: If you want an electric SUV that drives like a sports car, this is it.

Long Range Model Details

The Model Y Long Range packs a punch in efficiency and performance. Let's break it down:

Energy Use

Check out these range figures:

Speed	Consumption	Range
37 mph	6 mi/kWh	452 miles
56 mph	4.4 mi/kWh	328 miles
81 mph	2.8 mi/kWh	208 miles

At highway speeds, you're looking at 300+ miles. Road trip, anyone?

The EPA rates the 2024 Model Y Long Range AWD at 3.5 miles per kWh (288 watt-hours per mile). That's top-tier efficiency for an electric SUV.

Speed Stats

It's not just efficient - it's quick:

Spec	Official	Real-World Tests
0-60 mph	4.8 seconds	4.1-4.4 seconds
Quarter-mile	-	12.4-12.7 seconds
Top Speed	135 mph	-

Motortrend put it to the test:

"The Model Y Dual Motor Long Range hit 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. That's just a tenth slower than the Jaguar I-Pace and a full second quicker than the Audi e-Tron, both of which are substantially more expensive."

V8 sports car performance with SUV practicality? Yes, please.

The Long Range hits the sweet spot for most drivers. Quick acceleration, smooth ride, and plenty of range (310 miles AWD, 320 miles RWD per EPA). It's the best of both worlds.

Price and Value

The Tesla Model Y comes in two flavors: Performance and Long Range. Let's break down the costs and see what you're getting for your money.

Upfront Costs

Here's the price difference:

Model	Starting Price
Model Y Long Range	$47,990
Model Y Performance	$51,490

That's a $3,500 gap. But watch out - options can jack up the price. A fully loaded Performance model can hit nearly $89,000 with all the bells and whistles.

Long-term, you're looking at about $65,000 over 5 years. That covers things like depreciation, insurance, maintenance, and charging costs.

What You Get

So, is the Performance worth the extra cash? Here's how they stack up:

Feature	Long Range	Performance
Range	330 miles	303 miles
0-60 mph	4.6 seconds	3.7 seconds
Top Speed	135 mph	155 mph
Horsepower	384 hp	456 hp

The Performance is faster and more powerful, but you'll sacrifice some range.

For most people, the Long Range is the smart choice. You get:

• More miles per charge
• Still-impressive acceleration
• A lower price tag

But if you're all about speed or want to hit the track, the Performance might be your jam.

Don't forget about tax credits - you might qualify for up to $7,500 off, making either option easier on your wallet.

Driving Feel

The Model Y comes in two flavors: Performance and Long Range. Each offers a unique driving experience.

Comfort and Daily Use

Both versions share some DNA:

• Low center of gravity
• Quick steering
• Instant throttle response

But they're not twins:

Feature	Long Range	Performance
Suspension	Softer	Stiffer, lowered
0-60 mph	4.6 s	3.7 s
Horsepower	384 hp	456 hp
Ride quality	Smoother	Firmer

The Long Range is your comfy daily driver. It's built for smooth cruising and efficiency. Think of it as the sensible shoes of the Tesla world.

The Performance? It's the sports car of the family. It's quick, it's nimble, but it might make you spill your coffee on a bumpy road.

One Team-BHP user said about the Performance model: "When you step on gas, the car feels like its launching and takes off with an insane rush and if you are not prepared, it feels like your brain is squished against your skull."

Both models let you drive with one pedal most of the time, thanks to regenerative braking. The same user noted: "I drove the car for little over 250 miles and I may have touched the brake 5-6 times at the most."

For most folks, the Long Range is probably the way to go. It's comfy without being slow. The Performance is faster, sure, but it might be overkill for your grocery runs.

Just remember: The Performance model's 21-inch wheels can make for a bumpier ride on rough roads. But hey, some people like their coffee shaken, not stirred.

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Inside the Car

The Model Y's interior is all about minimalism. Both Performance and Long Range models rock the same cabin design. Let's take a look:

Comfort and Tech Features

The star of the show? A massive 15-inch touchscreen. It's your control center for everything:

• Climate
• Navigation
• Entertainment
• Vehicle settings

No physical buttons here. As one driver put it:

"It takes a moment to get used to a Tesla. The cabin is super simple, and those two steering wheel buttons do a TON of stuff."

What you'll find inside:

• Seats for five (UK models)
• Heated seats all around
• Huge glass roof
• Flat floor for comfy rear seats

The Model Y is SPACIOUS. Check it out:

Feature	Measurement
Length	4,751mm
Width	1,978mm
Boot space (seats up)	854 litres
Boot space (seats down)	2,041 litres
Front trunk ("frunk")	117 litres

Need to tow? You can haul up to 1,600kg with the optional tow bar.

But it's not all sunshine and roses:

• Rear visibility? Not great.
• No rear wiper
• Glass roof can get toasty in summer

Some owners have grumbled about build quality:

• Wonky windscreen-to-sunroof joins
• Flimsy-feeling trim
• Big panel gaps

Not what you'd expect from a £50,000+ car, right?

On the tech front, the Model Y brings its A-game:

• Four USB chargers
• Over-the-air updates
• Advanced driver assists

There's even a "Car Wash Mode" to prep your Tesla for a scrub-down.

Comfort-wise, the front seats sit high for a great view. Rear seats recline and fold flat, turning your Model Y into a cargo beast.

One last thing: The Performance model's stiffer suspension might make for a bumpier ride on rough roads.

Charging and Range in Practice

The Model Y's charging and range are crucial for buyers. Let's look at how these electric SUVs perform day-to-day.

Everyday Performance

The Long Range and Performance models have different charging speeds and ranges:

Model	EPA Range	10-80% Supercharging	Avg. Charging Speed
Long Range	316 miles	33 min 29 sec	99.1 kW
Performance	280-315 miles*	27 min	124 kW

*Range varies with wheel size and upgrades

The Performance charges faster but has less range. Your choice depends on your driving needs.

Both models support 11.5 kW home charging. Most owners charge overnight.

YouTuber Andy Cheng tested the Performance model:

"I drove 282.4 miles from Culver City to San Diego and back to Monterey Park, with one Supercharger stop. The car did well, but planning was crucial."

This shows real-world range can differ from EPA estimates. Driving style, weather, and route all matter.

Tesla's Supercharger network is a big plus. With 45,000+ chargers worldwide, you're rarely far from a fast charge. For long trips, the Long Range's extra miles might mean fewer stops.

To maximize range:

• Use the trip planner for Superchargers
• Choose hotels with chargers
• Try RV hookups at campgrounds

EVs often do better in city driving thanks to regenerative braking. This can stretch your range in traffic.

Money Matters

Let's talk cash. The Model Y Long Range starts at $47,990, while the Performance jumps to $62,190. That's a $14,200 gap right off the bat.

But it's not just about the sticker price. Here's the lowdown on costs over time:

Cost Factor	Long Range	Performance
Starting Price	$47,990	$62,190
5-Year Depreciation	$22,995	$26,558
10-Year Maintenance	$6,965	$6,965
Annual Insurance (avg)	$4,437	$4,437

The Performance model takes a bigger hit on depreciation. But both models keep maintenance costs low - $7,187 less than your average luxury SUV.

Now, fuel costs? That's where Teslas crush it. The Model Y squeezes out 4 miles per kWh, costing you about $0.03 per mile. That's $300 for 10,000 miles of daily driving. Compare that to a Toyota RAV4 hybrid AWD at $1,105 for the same distance (assuming $4.20/gallon gas).

Road tripping with Superchargers? Budget $600 to $900 per 10,000 miles.

The Performance model trades some efficiency for speed:

Model	City MPGe	Highway MPGe
Long Range	127	117
Performance	115	106

Both models come with solid warranty coverage:

• 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper
• 8 years/100,000 miles for battery and motors (Long Range)
• 8 years/120,000 miles for battery and motors (Performance)

Bottom line? Both Tesla models are cheaper to own long-term than gas guzzlers. The Long Range is the smart choice for most, unless you're itching for that extra speed in the Performance.

Green Impact

The Tesla Model Y is a game-changer for the environment. Both Performance and Long Range versions blow gas-powered SUVs out of the water when it comes to emissions and energy savings.

Power Savings

Check out these numbers:

Vehicle	Annual CO2 Emissions	Equivalent Gas MPG
Tesla Model Y (US avg. grid)	2,817 lbs	102
Gas-powered SUV	12,594 lbs	30

That's right - the Model Y pumps out 78% less CO2 per year than a typical gas guzzler. And if you're in a place with cleaner energy (looking at you, California), it's even better.

But here's where it gets really interesting:

1. Emissions Break-Even Point

It takes about 14,800 miles (1-2 years of driving) for the Model Y to offset its higher production emissions. After that? It's all green gains.

2. Lifetime Emissions

Over its life, a Model Y produces 66-69% fewer emissions than a gas car in the US. And as our grid gets greener, so does your Model Y.

3. Charging Impact

How you juice up matters:

Charging Method	Environmental Impact
Home solar	Lowest emissions
Off-peak grid	Lower emissions
Peak grid	Higher emissions

Want to max out your green cred? Go solar, charge off-peak, or switch to a green energy provider.

Now, the Performance model trades a bit of efficiency for speed:

Model	City MPGe	Highway MPGe
Long Range	127	117
Performance	115	106

But let's be real - both are still running circles around gas SUVs.

Tesla's not just about emissions, though. They're thinking big picture:

• No more chrome trim (it's bad news for workers)
• Easy-to-recycle door modules
• Less paint waste

And here's the kicker: as the US moves towards 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035, your Model Y will get even greener.

So, Long Range or Performance? Either way, you're doing the planet a solid.

Which One to Choose

Picking between the Tesla Model Y Performance and Long Range? It's all about what matters most to you.

Best Uses

Model	Ideal For	Key Advantages
Long Range	Daily drivers, road trippers	More range, smoother ride, cheaper
Performance	Speed freaks, tech geeks	Faster acceleration, higher top speed

Long Range: The Smart Pick

The Long Range is perfect for everyday life:

• 316 miles of range (36 more than Performance)
• Starts at $54,190 ($8,000 less)
• 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds (still pretty quick)

It's the go-to for most buyers. You get Tesla's cool tech and great performance without emptying your wallet.

Performance: The Speed Demon

Want that extra kick?

• 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (almost a full second faster)
• 456 hp (72 more than Long Range)
• Better brakes, wheels, and suspension

At $62,190, you're paying more for speed. But for some, it's worth every penny.

The Range Trade-off

Just remember: The Performance model only goes 280 miles on a charge. That's still decent, but something to think about if you're always on the road.

Real-world Performance

Here's the surprise: The Long Range often beats its official specs in real tests. Car and Driver got it from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds – just 0.7 seconds behind the Performance.

For most people, the Long Range hits the sweet spot of speed, range, and price. But if you NEED the fastest Model Y and don't mind the extra cost, the Performance won't let you down.

Conclusion

The Tesla Model Y comes in two flavors: Long Range and Performance. Here's the lowdown:

Feature	Long Range	Performance
Range	316 miles	280 miles
0-60 mph	4.6 seconds	3.7 seconds
Price	$54,190	$62,190
Best for	Daily use, road trips	Speed lovers

Most buyers should pick the Long Range. Why?

• 36 more miles of range
• $8,000 cheaper
• Better efficiency (122 mpg-e combined)
• Smoother ride

The Performance model? It's all about speed:

• 0.9 seconds quicker to 60 mph
• Higher top speed (155 mph vs 135 mph)
• Track mode for extra fun

But you'll pay for it:

• Less range
• Higher price
• Stiffer ride

For everyday driving and road trips, Long Range is the way to go. It's the sweet spot between performance and efficiency. Plus, it often beats its official specs in real-world tests.

Want speed above all else? The Performance model's your ticket. It's a blast to drive, but less practical for daily use.

Here's a bonus: Both models qualify for the federal EV tax credit. That's up to $7,500 in savings.

So, what's it gonna be?

• Best value and range? Long Range.
• Fastest Model Y? Performance.

Either way, you're getting a top-selling EV packed with Tesla's latest tech.

FAQs

What's the difference between Performance and Long Range Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y comes in two flavors: Performance and Long Range. Here's how they stack up:

Feature	Long Range	Performance
Range	316 miles	280 miles
0-60 mph	4.6 seconds	3.7 seconds
Top speed	135 mph	155 mph
Starting price	$54,190	$62,190
Wheels	19-inch	20-inch
Suspension	Standard	Lowered
Track mode	No	Yes

In a nutshell: The Performance model trades some range for speed and handling. The Long Range? It's all about efficiency and distance.

How do Tesla Y Performance and Long Range compare?

Let's break it down:

1. Speed: Performance hits 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Long Range? 4.6 seconds.
2. Range: Long Range lives up to its name with 316 miles. Performance gives you 280 miles.
3. Features: Performance comes with some extras:
   • 20-inch wheels
   • Lowered suspension
   • Beefier brakes
   • Track mode
4. Price: Performance costs $8,000 more, starting at $62,190.
5. Efficiency: Long Range wins here with a 122 mpg-e rating.

So, what's it gonna be? Long Range for efficiency and distance, or Performance for speed and handling (if you're willing to shell out more)?

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