Drag Race: Tesla Model S Performance vs. Mercedes S-Class

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The era of the pre-design-refresh Model S is not over yet, it is still out—hunting ICE-world competitors on the dragstrips. The latest of its prey is the 2021 Mercedes Benz S-Class S 500.

Mat Watson from Carwow brought a Tesla Model S Performance aka P100D and a Merc S-Class to the track for a quarter-mile drag race against one another.

Personally, I like the new Mercedes S-Class design-wise, especially the interior, where this giant screen in the center is definitely Tesla-inspired. Good to see that traditional automakers are taking lead from the contemporary automotive companies.

Tesla Model Y Accessories by EVANNEX (Sponsored Banner).
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Before jumping on to the race video, let’s compare both cars in performance specs and pricing. Tesla has discontinued the Model S P100D variant in favor of the new flagship Model S Plaid.

Tesla Model S P100D2021 Mercedes S-Class S 500
Battery-Pack/Engine100 kWh Performance Version3.0L inline-6 turbo engine with EQ Boost and electric auxiliary compressor Engine
DrivetrainDual Motor Performance AWD4MATIC (AWD)
TransmissionSingle Speed Clutchless 10:1Reduction Gear9G-TRONIC 9-speed Automatic transmission
Acceleration (0-60 mph)2.5s (2.3s with Cheetah Stance)4.9s
Top speed155 mph (250 km/h) Software limited162 mph (260 km/h)
Launch controlLudicrous+ ModeN/A
Horsepower588 hp (438 kW)429 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Max.Torque920 lb-ft (1,247 Nm) @ InstantN/A
Curb weight4,960 lbs (2,250 kg)4,740 lbs
Starting Price (USD)$99,990 (discontinued)$109,800
Tesla Model S Performance vs. Mercedes S-Class performance specs and price comparison. Data source: Manufacturer specifications.
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An internal combustion engine (ICE) from 2021 is no match for the years-old electric drivetrain. The Merc here was just left way behind in this drag race while Tesla—a clear winner.

Perhaps, the Mercedes S 500 should have contested against a Model 3 Performance but even the smaller Tesla is faster than the Merc (0-60 in 3.1s vs. 4.9s respectively).

The new Tesla Model S Plaid with its 0-60 mph in 1.99s time is wreaking havoc at the dragstrip and has started an undefeated streak against ICE supercars like Ford Mustang Shelby GT, McLaren, and even an 840 hp Dodge Demon.

Stay tuned for constant Tesla updates, follow us on: 
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Iqtidar Ali
Iqtidar Alihttp://www.teslaoracle.com
Author of more than 1500 articles on Tesla, SpaceX, and EVs. His work has been liked and tweeted by Elon Musk and other prominent influencers. You can reach him on Twitter @IqtidarAlii

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