Video Summary
-The Tesla Model S Plaid reviewed produces 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 pound-feet of torque.- A used 2021 model like this can be found for $60,000 to $80,000; the MSRP was over $130,000.
- This specific model has aftermarket wheels and modified suspension that sits slightly lower than stock.
- The Model S Plaid lapped the Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 35 seconds.
- The Plaid is a trimotor EV with one motor in front and two in the back; it has a 99–100 kWh battery, rated for 388 miles of range.
- The actual range that an owner can get is 300–320 miles in regular driving conditions.
- The car has multilink front and rear suspension with adaptive dampers.
- The yoke steering wheel is not as bothersome as anticipated.
- Acceleration settings include Chill, Sport, and Plaid, with a Drag Strip mode also available.
- There is a 2-second or 1.9-second 0 to 60 acceleration.
- A quarter mile can be reached in the low to mid-9-second range.
- Steering is adjustable with light, standard, and heavy options, but does not change feedback.
- Suspension can be adjusted to comfort, auto, sport, and advanced.
- The transmission is controlled on the infotainment display.
- The car has some squeaks and rattles, which are more noticeable due to the EV's relative silence.
- Braking performance may not be sufficient for track use.
- There is good front-end grip, but it's hard to feel through the steering.
- With foot-to-the-floor acceleration, the steering moves around a bit, which feels unstable.
- The suspension is good in terms of damping qualities and compliance.
- Overall, when at partial throttle, the car feels confident, refined, and comfortable.
- For straight-line performance vehicles, it provides an insane amount of performance at its price point.
