Tesla Roadster 2.5 Sport

Overview

The 2012 Tesla Roadster 2.5 Sport is the thrilling final evolution of the car that kickstarted the electric revolution! This isn't just an EV; it's a piece of automotive history, a raw, Lotus-based two-seater sports car that proved electric power could be seriously exciting. With its peppy performance and iconic status, it’s a proper collector's item. Originally a trailblazer, it's now a sought-after classic on the used market, with prices varying widely based on condition and mileage, as it's long discontinued and wasn't officially sold new in the EU with specific EU pricing.

What's New for 2012?

For 2012, the Roadster 2.5 Sport represented the pinnacle of its development. Building on the "2.5" updates from mid-2010, it boasted a tweaked front fascia and rear diffuser for a sharper look. Inside, occupants benefited from improved seat comfort and better sound insulation, making it a slightly more refined beast. The "Sport" designation brought goodies like an enhanced hand-wound motor for that extra oomph, plus adjustable suspension, allowing drivers to fine-tune its already brilliant handling for an even more connected feel on those twisty B-roads.

Design & Exterior

It’s pure sports car attitude! The Tesla Roadster 2.5 Sport, with its Lotus Elise DNA, is undeniably striking. Its compact, carbon fibre body screams performance, measuring a nimble 3946 mm in length, 1852 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and a super low 1127 mm in height. The 2.5 iteration featured a more aggressive front apron and rear diffuser. It’s a targa-topped, wind-in-your-hair machine that still turns heads and looks ready to pounce, a true testament to its timeless, athletic design. Small, light, and incredibly agile!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Roadster 2.5 Sport, and it’s a focused, no-nonsense affair. This two-seater cabin is snug, prioritising the driving experience over outright luxury. Materials are purposeful, and while the 2.5 models saw upgrades like comfier seats, it's still very much a raw sports car environment. Tech was basic by today's standards; some models featured an optional small touchscreen, but don't expect Apple CarPlay. Cargo space is a modest 150 litres in the boot – enough for a weekend blast, but there's no frunk to be found.

Performance & Driving Experience

This is where the Roadster 2.5 Sport properly shines! Mash the pedal, and it rockets from 0-100 km/h in a blistering 3.9 seconds. Its single AC induction motor sends 215 kW and a hefty 400 Nm of instant torque to the rear wheels, delivering that signature EV punch. The driving experience is pure go-kart – direct, engaging, and incredibly fun, especially with the Sport’s adjustable suspension. It’s light, agile, and the regenerative braking is effective, making it a hoot on challenging roads. What a machine!

Range, Battery & Charging

The Roadster 2.5 Sport packs a 50.4 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 373 km – pretty impressive for its era! Its efficiency is rated at a decent 7.4 km/kWh. For charging, it came with a Type 1 (J1772) port; EU owners would typically use an adapter for Type 2 AC charging. The standard on-board AC charger is a surprisingly beefy 16.8 kW, meaning a full top-up could be done in about 3.5-4 hours. However, DC fast charging wasn't a feature on this pioneering EV.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

The Tesla Roadster, being a low-volume, early EV sports car, was never subjected to Euro NCAP or NHTSA crash testing, so official ratings aren't available. In terms of safety kit, it was quite basic by modern standards, focusing on essential active safety like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. It included airbags, but you won't find the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist that are common today. It was all about the pure, unassisted driving thrill!

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the Tesla Roadster typically came with a vehicle warranty of around 3 to 4 years or approximately 50,000 to 80,000 kilometres. The crucial battery pack was often covered for about 8 years or 160,000 kilometres. As a discontinued model from 2012, these original warranties have long expired. Maintenance benefits from fewer moving parts than an ICE car, but specialist knowledge for its unique powertrain is essential. For prospective used buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on battery health is highly recommended for this iconic EV.