The Tesla Motors [NSDQ:TSLA] Model S has proven itself in drag races against all kinds of high-performance cars, but what about Tesla's new Model X hatch?
It may be a bit taller and heavier than the Model S, but the Model X shares the sedan's powertrains. That includes a P90D performance option complete with an available Ludicrous mode that makes it even quicker. Given that fact, it's not too surprising that a Model X has already made a few drag-strip passes.
DragTimes decided to compare a Model X P90D with Ludicrous mode to its Model S counterpart in a series of head-to-head races. And to make things more interesting, the Model S was driven by an experienced racer, while the Model X was driven by his wife, who had never raced before.
ALSO SEE: Radio Flyer Makes A Tesla Model S For Kids: Video
The Model X's bigger size makes it heavier than the Model S, and less aerodynamic, so it can't quite match the Model S's performance. Still, the Model X managed a best time of 11.61 seconds at 116 mph over the quarter mile. DragTimes' previously-recorded best for the Model S was 11.24 second at 118.5 mph.
The Model X also managed 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds, which is actually 0.1 second better than Tesla's own estimate. It also stayed pretty close to the Model S over multiple races. It consistently ran around 11.6 seconds, compared to 11.3-11.5 seconds for the Model S, and according to DragTimes the fact that the two electric cars were so close in performance suggests that the Model X may have been making more power than the Model S. The official numbers are 259 horsepower up front and 503 hp at the rear.
The jury's out on the extra power but it's clear the Model X can be a drag-strip terror. What's better than seeing an electric sedan take on the likes of supercars and Dodge Hellcats? Seeing an electric hatch do it.
_______________________________________