Table of Contents
The Demo Setup and Initial Impressions
The author began the day in a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD, heading to a Tesla Center for a scheduled one‑hour demo of a Model S Plaid. The plan was to experience the high‑performance version of the flagship sedan, but the demo car was a 2024 Model S Plaid that had been used on Turo. The first reaction was that the car felt cool, yet the steering wheel design—described as a “half‑wheel” or “yolk”—seemed to detract from the overall driving experience. The author noted that a full, solid steering wheel is preferable for a 1,000‑horsepower vehicle, especially when navigating corners or tight parking lots.
Because the steering wheel felt limiting, the author decided to test a Model 3 Performance instead. The Performance version was a demo car that had been used for a previous demo, and it was available in standard mode. The author’s goal was to compare the Performance’s handling and acceleration to his own dual‑motor Model 3, and to evaluate whether a new or used Model S would be a better fit for his needs.
Steering, Suspension, and Handling
In standard mode, the Model 3 Performance’s steering felt similar to the dual‑motor version, but the author noticed a subtle difference in weight and responsiveness. The car’s 20‑inch wheels and lower stance gave it a more planted feel, and the suspension was slightly stiffer than the dual‑motor model, likely due to the larger wheels. When the author switched to sport suspension, the handling improved noticeably, with tighter turning and better cornering stability. The Performance’s steering was described as “nice” and “good,” and the car’s lower center of gravity made it feel more agile than the dual‑motor version.
During a test on a rough road, the Performance handled well, and the author compared it to his dual‑motor Model 3, noting that the Performance’s handling was superior. The author also mentioned that the Model S would likely not match the Performance’s handling, especially in quick corners, and that the Performance’s lower stance and more aggressive suspension made it a better daily driver for someone who enjoys spirited driving.
Acceleration, Power, and Performance
The author performed several 0‑60 mph tests on the Performance, using the “insane” mode that was available on the demo car. The times were consistently around 2.8 to 2.9 seconds, which is comparable to a new Model S Plaid. The author emphasized that the Performance’s acceleration felt instant and powerful, and that the car’s power delivery was more immediate than his dual‑motor Model 3. The author also noted that the Performance’s regenerative braking was similar to his own car, but the braking performance was still not as strong as desired, suggesting that larger rotors might be beneficial.
In addition to acceleration, the author tested the car’s rolling speed at 55 mph. The Performance maintained strong power and did not feel sluggish, even when the speed limiter was engaged. The author concluded that the Performance’s power and acceleration make it a compelling choice for a daily driver, especially for those who value quick launch and responsive handling.
Daily‑Driver Comfort and Practicality
Comfort-wise, the author noted that the Performance’s seats were more bolstered and cooler than those in the dual‑motor Model 3. The lower stance and improved suspension also contributed to a more engaging driving experience. The author appreciated the Model 3’s visibility and overall design, which were similar to his own car, but found the Performance’s styling—such as the warp bumper, spoiler, and performance badge—to be more appealing.
Practical considerations were also discussed. The author mentioned that the Model S would be expensive new, and that a used Model S with 30,000 miles would be a more realistic option. However, the author ultimately favored the Model 3 Performance as a daily driver, citing its lower cost, better handling, and comparable acceleration to the Model S. The author also highlighted the importance of the car’s low stance for sports‑car enthusiasts, noting that the Performance’s lower profile made it feel more dynamic.
Choosing Between a New or Used Model
In the final section, the author reflected on whether to purchase a new or used Model S or to stick with the Model 3 Performance. The author expressed a preference for a used Model S, citing depreciation and cost, but ultimately concluded that the Model 3 Performance offered the best balance of performance, comfort, and affordability for daily use. The author encouraged readers to consider their own priorities—whether they value raw power, handling, or cost—when deciding between the two models.
Overall, the demo drive highlighted the strengths of the Model 3 Performance, especially in terms of steering, acceleration, and daily‑driver suitability. The author’s experience suggests that the Performance is a strong contender for anyone looking for a high‑performance electric sedan that can also serve as a practical daily driver.