2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance: The Best Electric Sports Sedan?

The 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance may not have been the first electric car to hit the streets, but it was definitely one that got people talking. With its blistering acceleration and innovative technology, Tesla positioned this Model 3 as the car that could change how people think about EVs, not just as eco-friendly, but also as exhilarating to drive. The 0-60 mph time is what gets everyone's attention—an incredible 3.5 seconds. Let’s dig into this exciting car, explore its highs and lows, and see if it's really worth the hype.

What Makes the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance Stand Out?

When you think about a car, performance is often synonymous with raw power and speed. The Tesla Model 3 Performance doesn’t disappoint here. With 450 horsepower and a torque rating of 471 lb-ft, this car is a beast, especially considering it’s all-electric. But it’s not just about the numbers—there's so much more.

Tesla engineers designed this car for both speed and efficiency. The dual-motor all-wheel drive means that power is distributed evenly, helping the car maintain grip in challenging conditions and ensuring it can handle the tightest corners with ease.

Let’s break it down further:

• Acceleration: A 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, which beats out many traditional gas-powered performance cars.
• Top Speed: 155 mph—more than enough for the everyday driver, though it’s also limited electronically for safety.
• Range: Even with the performance specs, you get an impressive 310 miles of range. That’s one area where Tesla really shines, because a lot of electric cars sacrifice range for performance.

As Alex Collantes, a proud owner of the 2018 Model 3 Performance, puts it, “I was looking for a fast car that didn’t guzzle gas, but I didn’t want to compromise on performance. This car blew me away. I’ve taken it to the track, and it handles better than a lot of sports cars I’ve driven.”

The 0-60: A Headline-Grabbing Stat

One of the first things anyone asks about a performance car is, “How fast does it go from 0-60?” With the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance, the answer is pretty jaw-dropping: 3.5 seconds. That’s in the realm of Ferrari 488 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo territory, both of which cost significantly more.

This incredible acceleration comes thanks to the dual motors, which can independently control torque to the front and rear wheels. This system gives the car instantaneous torque—something that EVs excel at.

Breaking Down the Numbers:

• 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
• Quarter-mile time: About 11.8 seconds
• Horsepower: 450 hp

Pros:

• Instant torque for rapid acceleration
• All-wheel-drive traction for better handling
• Outpaces many traditional sports cars in a straight line

Cons:

• Some drivers feel that the car’s lack of an engine sound takes away from the overall experience.
• The speed can be too immediate, making it tricky for first-time EV drivers to handle smoothly.

Tech and Features: More Than Just Speed

It’s not just speed and performance that make the 2018 Model 3 Performance stand out. Tesla packed this car with cutting-edge technology designed to make your driving experience easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Autopilot: Semi-Autonomous Driving

Tesla’s Autopilot system gets a lot of attention. In the Model 3 Performance, it’s as close as we’ve gotten to self-driving cars. The system uses an array of cameras and sensors around the vehicle to maintain lanes, adjust speed based on traffic, and even take curves with minimal driver input.

• Pro: Convenience on long highway trips.
• Con: Still requires driver supervision; some users feel over-reliant on it.

Infotainment System: A Large Touchscreen Interface

Inside, the Model 3 features a 15-inch touchscreen, which controls everything from climate settings to navigation and entertainment. One downside is that all the car’s functions are controlled through the screen—there are no physical buttons or dials, which some drivers find frustrating while on the move.

Comfort and Interior: Minimalistic but Not for Everyone

The interior of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance is sleek, but some may say it’s too minimal. It feels modern and futuristic, with vegan leather seats and open, airy cabin design. However, if you’re someone who likes buttons, knobs, and the feel of traditional controls, this might not be your cup of tea.

Seating and Cargo Space

There’s enough room to comfortably fit five passengers, and the rear seats fold down to provide even more cargo space. The front trunk—or “frunk”—adds additional storage, making it more practical than many sports sedans.

However, taller passengers might find the rear seating a bit tight due to the sloping roofline.

• Pros: Clean, modern design; ample cargo space
• Cons: Rear seating is a bit cramped; no physical controls could be a dealbreaker for some

Driving Dynamics: The Tesla Model 3 Handles Like a Dream

One of the surprises with the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance is how well it handles corners. Thanks to the car’s low center of gravity (thanks to the placement of the battery pack), it feels glued to the road even when pushing hard. The sports suspension and upgraded brakes add to the experience, making the car feel light and responsive.

Pros:

• Agile handling
• Precise steering
• Upgraded brakes for confident stopping power

Cons:

• Some drivers have mentioned the ride can be a bit stiff, especially on rough roads.
• Without engine noise, some drivers feel less connected to the driving experience.

Is the Tesla Model 3 Performance the Best EV in Its Class?

When comparing the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance to other electric cars, it’s clear that Tesla delivers something unique. Let’s take a look at how it stacks up against the competition.

Tesla Model 3 Performance vs. Chevrolet Bolt

• Performance: The Chevy Bolt can’t match the speed or acceleration of the Tesla Model 3 Performance. Its 0-60 time is almost double at around 6.5 seconds.
• Range: The Bolt delivers decent range at 238 miles, but it falls short of the Model 3’s 310 miles.
• Tech: While the Bolt has decent tech, it’s nowhere near the level of Tesla’s Autopilot or infotainment system.
• Price: The Bolt is more affordable, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers, but for enthusiasts looking for performance, the Model 3 wins hands down.

Tesla Model 3 Performance vs. BMW i3

• Performance: The i3 is nowhere near the level of the Tesla Model 3 Performance. Its 0-60 time is over 7 seconds.
• Range: The i3’s range of about 153 miles pales in comparison to the Tesla.
• Handling: While the i3 is nimble in urban settings, it lacks the high-speed stability and cornering prowess of the Model 3 Performance.
• Price: The i3 is cheaper, but again, it doesn’t deliver anywhere near the performance or tech that Tesla does.

Charging: Quick and Convenient, But Planning is Key

One of the biggest concerns with electric cars is charging, but Tesla's Supercharger network makes long-distance travel much easier. Tesla continues to expand its network, so finding a Supercharger station is becoming more convenient. Charging from 10% to 80% can be done in about 30-40 minutes, which is fast compared to many other EVs.

However, for drivers who don’t live near a Supercharger, relying on at-home charging might take a little more planning. Using a standard 240V outlet at home will give you about 30 miles of range per hour of charge. So, for full charge, you might need to plug in overnight.

• Pros: Supercharger network is fast and widely available.
• Cons: If you're not near a Supercharger, charging takes much longer; not ideal for people who need to charge quickly on the go.

Maintenance: A Lower Cost Alternative to Gasoline Cars?

Since the Model 3 is all-electric, it requires significantly less maintenance compared to traditional cars. There are no oil changes, no engine components to wear out, and fewer moving parts. Tesla recommends routine maintenance on things like brakes and tires, but the costs are much lower overall.

However, one area where some Tesla owners have raised concerns is with service availability. Depending on where you live, getting an appointment at a Tesla Service Center can take weeks, and Tesla’s unique parts can be expensive when repairs are needed.

• Pros: Lower long-term maintenance costs compared to gasoline cars.
• Cons: Service appointments can be hard to get; parts can be expensive if something breaks.

Potential Drawbacks of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance

While the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance offers a lot of bang for your buck, it’s not without its faults.

• Price: Starting around $64,000 in 2018, it’s not cheap. However, it's still less expensive than other performance vehicles in its class.
• Interior Quality: Some drivers have reported that the build quality inside the car isn't as high-end as you might expect for the price.
• Charging Network: Although Tesla's Supercharger network is extensive, it's still not as convenient as filling up a gas tank in a few minutes.

Final Thoughts on the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance

In the world of electric cars, the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance stands out for its insane acceleration, cutting-edge technology, and impressive range. While there are some drawbacks—like a minimalistic interior and a high price tag—the performance and driving dynamics make it one of the best EVs on the market for enthusiasts.

As Alex Collantes mentions, “I’ve had this car for almost three years now, and it’s still just as exciting to drive as it was the first day. Sure, the stiff ride can be a little much on bumpy roads, but when you hit the gas—or should I say, hit the pedal—the fun is unbeatable.”

If you’re in the market for an electric car that can double as a daily driver and weekend track toy, the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance should be at the top of your list.