and Plaid+ In the fall of 2020, Tesla confirmed a higher-end version of its banner EV with the unveiling of its tri-motor “Plaid” version. When it arrives in the fall of 2021, Plaid owners will be able to travel 396 miles on a single charge, reach a top speed of 200 mph, and zoom from 0-60 mph in 1.99 seconds. When originally announcing the Model S refresh for 2021, Tesla also revealed that the vehicle would come in an additional Plaid+ trim. The Plaid+ Model S was advertised to offer the same speed as its Plaid counterpart, but with a 520+ mile range on a single charge. Immediately, Tesla disciples put in thousands of reservations for the Plaid+, but the automaker eventually scrapped the entire trim altogether. Tesla CEO Elon Musk declared that consumers don’t need more than 400 miles of range, and the regular Plaid is “just too good.” Interior comparisons As the smaller, more streamlined alternative to the Model S, Tesla’s Model 3 tends to lack the space and luxury of its sedan predecessor… which isn’t saying much as the Model S pales in cargo comparison to the Model X and Model Y SUVs. Even with recent updates, the Model S still bests the younger EV with a 17- inch horizontal touchscreen (two inches larger than the Model 3). The Model S also wins in cargo space, offering 28 cubic feet of space compared to just 15 cubic feet on the Model 3. Lastly, the Model S comes equipped with a HEPA air filtration system to prevent viruses (rather relevant these days), bacteria, pollution, and odors from entering the cabin. Here’s a look at the new user interface on the upcoming Model S Plaid: Exterior comparisons The glaringly obvious difference between Tesla’s two sedans is size. The Model S is a larger, heavier machine, but as a result, offers more performance. On top of that, the Model S comes with 19″ or 21″ performance wheels compared to 18″ or 19″ options on the Standard and Long Range Model 3, and 20″ on the performance trim. Up top, either option comes with a tinted glass roof, offering all passengers ultraviolet and infrared protection. The Model S features a wider body, new headlights, and updated wheels. This has now been confirmed in the aforementioned refresh and exists amongst all four current Tesla models. Pricing After reading the breakdown of both sedans above, it should be clear that while both Teslas have their differences, both have a lot to offer consumers inside and out. What’s the best option for you, though? Here’s a quick summary of the price ranges of each trim on either model to help offer perspective as to what your ideal Tesla sedan might cost you. Note: These prices do not include the additional $1,200 in fees for destination and documentation or any federal tax credits. Model 3 Let’s begin with the younger of the two options. The Model 3 Standard Range Plus trim comes with single motor RWD and begins at a purchase price of $39,990. These base prices are with zero upgrades, and come with the standard white exterior paint. The Standard Range Plus can go as high as $53,990 if you were to add every top feature available. This includes red exterior paint, 19″ sport wheels, black and white interior, and full self-driving (FSD) capabilities for an extra $10,000. Moving to the dual motor AWD trims, the Long Range Model 3 starts at $49,990 and can go as high as $64,490 with all of the same added features mentioned above. Last but certainly not least, the Performance version of the Model 3 begins at a purchase price of $56,990 and can soar to $69,990 with all the toppings, including 20″ Überturbine Wheels. Overall, your least costly option for a new Model 3 comes in just under $40,000, while the most expensive version will run you almost $70,000. Model S Compared to the Model 3, Tesla’s Model S starts a couple price tiers higher and only elevates from there. Remember, the Model 3 is Tesla’s cheapest EV to date, while the Model S is one of the most expensive. Starting with the Long Range trim, this Model S starts at $89,990 completely standard. If you were to add each and every additional feature such as red paint, 21″ Arachnid Wheels, custom interior, and FSD capabilities, you’re looking at a price of $108,990. If you’re sweating and clutching your wallet after those numbers, just wait until you read about the Plaid. Tesla’s tri-motor Model S Plaid with zero upgrades starts at $129,990. Add red paint, new 21″ Arachnid Wheels, and FSD capabilities, and the Plaid can cost a whopping $148,990. For added texture, the fully loaded Model S Plaid will cost you nearly $50,000 more than a fully upgraded Model 3 Performance. Better yet, you could purchase three Standard Range Plus Model 3s and still have about $30,000 leftover for upgrades. What’s better, the Tesla Model S or Model 3? Like any Tesla purchase, the decision is not so simple. As Tesla’s veteran vehicle, the Model S offers size, cargo, and unmatched performance, but at a higher price. The latest refresh has only solidified these benefits for years to come, but with additional costs to an already expensive model. While the Model 3 is certainly smaller and a bit slower off the line in comparison, it still offers respectable range and performance at an unmatched price. This is a huge reason why the Model 3 has quickly become the best-selling plug-in electric in history. For purchase price alone, the Standard Range Plus Model 3 is a clear winner. For overall value, either dual-motor trims of the Model 3 take the cake. As a newer model and a clear focus of the automaker looking forward, the Model 3 has already seen several upgrades to its design and performance. Expect more of this in the future as an owner. Overall, you can’t go wrong with either Tesla model. The biggest deciding factor really comes down to how much you want to spend. If you’re new to the electric vehicle world, why not start with a Model 3? Want a little more speed and luxury? Go with the Model S. Or, if you have $150,000 lying around collecting dust, maybe put in an order for that tri-motor Model S Plaid. Add Electrek to your Google News feed.