The time for Top Gear to test the Tesla Model 3 has come and, as expected, the popular TV show brought along its key performance rivals, namely the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, the BMW M3 and the Mercedes-AMG C63 S.
As you might have guessed by now, the version tested here is the range-topping Performance, complete with dual electric motors and 444 HP. Elon Musk made some bold claims when the faster Model 3 arrived,΄ – claims that Top Gear is putting to the test.
Tesla’s CEO had said that the Model 3 Performance “will beat anything in its class on the track”; which, admittedly, is not an easy feat given the caliber of the competition.
Also Watch: Tesla Model 3 Performance Declared To Be In A Class Of Its Own
Of course a full comparison must include a drag race. Unlike the usual quarter-mile run, though, Chris Harris opted for a longer half-mile duel to see if the bad boy of the Model 3 range can keep its momentum going against its angry rivals.
The Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor Performance offers a combined 444 HP (450PS) and 471lb-ft (638Nm) of torque, making it capable of a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 3.4 seconds and of a top speed of 162mph (261km/h).
The Performance package adds a lower ride height, 20-inch alloy wheels with stickier Michelin tires, bigger brakes, a carbon lip spoiler and, more importantly, a special Track mode that extracts more speed out of the Model 3.
So, does this mean this is another drag race dominated by the Tesla? Well… no spoilers here, the answer lies in the video right after the break.