Tesla’s lineup of electric vehicles spans from nimble sedans to heavyweight SUVs, and each model’s weight plays a role in its performance and maintenance. At Three Brothers Auto Repair in New Jersey, we often get questions about Tesla models’ weight differences and why it matters. As EV specialists, we understand that a Tesla’s weight affects everything from energy efficiency to tire wear. In this article, we’ll break down the weight of each Tesla model and discuss what those differences mean for drivers.
Tesla Sedans: Model S vs Model 3 Weight
Tesla Model S y Tesla Model 3 are both sedans, but they differ significantly in size and weight. The Model S is a larger luxury sedan with a big battery and dual or tri electric motors, making it substantially heavier than the compact Model 3. For example, a Model S Long Range (dual-motor) has a curb weight around 4,561 lbs, whereas a single-motor Model 3 Standard Range Plus weighs about 3,862 lbs. That’s roughly a 700 lb difference in favor of the smaller Model 3. In fact, the Model 3’s lighter mass is a key reason it achieves better energy efficiency (more miles per kWh) than the Model S.
The weight gap also comes from the Model S’s larger battery pack and additional motors. The high-performance Model S Plaid trim – with three motors – tips the scales at about 4,766 lbs, adding extra weight for that extreme performance. Meanwhile, a Model 3 Performance (dual-motor) comes in around 4,048 lbs, still lighter than the lightest Model S. In everyday driving around New Jersey, this means a Model 3 feels a bit more agile and efficient, while a Model S feels more solid and planted. We find that Model S owners appreciate the stable, substantial feel, whereas Model 3 drivers enjoy the nimble handling and lower energy bills.
Tesla SUVs: Model X vs Model Y Weight
Tesla’s SUV-style vehicles – the Model X y Model Y – are on the heavier side, but there’s a notable difference between them. The Model X is a full-size SUV with options for seven seats and a large battery, making it the heaviest Tesla model. A Model X Long Range weighs approximately 5,185 lbs, and the high-powered Model X Plaid (with three motors) weighs about 5,390 lbs. In contrast, the Model Y, a smaller crossover SUV, has a curb weight of about 4,416 lbs (for both Long Range and Performance trims). The Model X can weigh 700–1,000 lbs more than a Model Y, depending on the trims compared.
In practical terms, a Model X carries more mass due to its larger size and features. Despite its weight, the Model X Plaid still delivers incredible acceleration – but it inevitably uses more energy to move that weight. The lighter Model Y, sharing many components with the Model 3 sedan, is more efficient than the Model X and feels a bit more nimble in city driving. We remind Model X owners that its extra weight can lead to a bit more tire wear and slightly lower range compared to a lighter Model Y. On the flip side, that extra weight gives the Model X a stable ride on the highway and good traction.
Tesla Weight Comparison
Below is a quick comparison table of Tesla models by weight (from heaviest to lightest):
| Tesla Model | Curb Weight |
|---|---|
| Model X Plaid (AWD) | 5,390 lbs |
| Model X Long Range (AWD) | 5,185 lbs |
| Model S Plaid (AWD) | 4,766 lbs |
| Model S Long Range (AWD) | 4,561 lbs |
| Model Y (Dual Motor AWD) | 4,416 lbs |
| Model 3 Performance (Dual Motor AWD) | 4,048 lbs |
| Model 3 Long Range (Dual Motor AWD) | 4,034 lbs |
| Model 3 Standard Range Plus (RWD) | 3,862 lbs |
Why Tesla Weight Matters for Owners
Understanding the weight of your Tesla isn’t just trivia – it has real effects on driving and maintenance. Here’s how weight influences your vehicle:
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Energy Efficiency: Heavier Teslas generally require more energy to drive. A larger mass means the battery has to work harder to move the car, which can reduce the range and efficiency compared to a lighter model. For instance, the heavy Model X gets fewer miles per kWh than a Model 3 or Model Y in similar conditions.
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Performance and Handling: Extra weight can affect acceleration and handling. A heavier car may feel less spry. However, Tesla often compensates by adding more powerful motors (e.g., the Plaid models). One upside of the weight is improved stability – the heavy battery pack lowers the center of gravity, making Teslas very stable in corners. Drivers often notice that even the big Model S or X feels planted and confident on the road.
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Tire and Brake Wear: The heavier weight (combined with Tesla’s instant torque) can lead to faster tire wear. Brakes on Teslas don’t wear as quickly (thanks to regenerative braking), but they still must stop a heavy car. We advise Tesla owners to monitor tire pressure and tread regularly – especially on heavier models – to ensure even wear and safe performance on New Jersey roads.
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Towing and Maintenance: If you ever need to tow or trailer your Tesla, knowing its weight is crucial. Using the right equipment (tow truck, trailer, or lift) is essential for safety. At our shop, we take a Tesla’s weight into account during servicing – from selecting lifts that can handle a Model X’s ~2.7 ton mass to choosing high-load-rated tires for replacement.
Weighing In on Tesla Models
Tesla models vary widely in weight – from around 3,800 lbs for a Model 3 sedan to over 5,300 lbs for a Model X SUV. These differences boil down to design: bigger batteries, more motors, and larger bodies add pounds but also bring extra performance or capacity. For Tesla owners in New Jersey, being aware of your car’s weight is more than just a number: it’s connected to your driving experience. We see every day that a vehicle’s weight influences how it handles, how quickly tires wear, and what kind of range you can expect.
In the end, whether you’re driving a sporty Model 3 or a family-hauling Model X, understanding your Tesla’s weight helps you appreciate the engineering behind it and maintain it wisely. Feel free to reach out to Three Brothers Auto Repair with any questions – we’re here to keep New Jersey’s Teslas running safely and efficiently.
