From BMW to Tesla?

[Clark_Kent]

I lease transferred my 2018 BMW M3 CS about a year ago and I’m now strongly considering a 2020 Tesla Model 3 LR. I’m certain there are quite a few folks here who have picked up a Model 3 as a stablemate to your BMW or to replace a BMW. I’m interested to hear your thoughts and impressions if you’ve taken the leap. Specifically, I would like to know: which Model 3 trim you picked up, your thoughts on the value proposition, driving dynamics/performance, range, battery degradation, resale value, infotainment, cargo capacity, hauling kids around, etc.

A couple of notes: I know this is a BMW forum and not a Tesla forum, and no I’m not interested in posting this on the Tesla.com forum or TMC and I’m not interested in a Tesla vs. BMW debate.

[mkoesel]

There are lots of reports from Tesla owners across Bimmerpost already. Did you start by reading these?

https://www.google.com/search?q=site...post.com+Tesla
https://www.google.com/search?q=site:m3post.com+Tesla
https://www.google.com/search?q=site:xbimmers.com+Tesla

[Clark_Kent]

Originally Posted by mkoesel

There are lots of reports from Tesla owners across Bimmerpost already. Did you start by reading these?

https://www.google.com/search?q=site...post.com+Tesla
https://www.google.com/search?q=site:m3post.com+Tesla
https://www.google.com/search?q=site:xbimmers.com+Tesla

I did read through many of those threads; however, many appear to be filled with more banter than solid consumable content. I'm also looking for a refreshed, current perspective now that the car has been out for nearly 3 years. All good though...I'm sure I can browse YouTube and other forums for what I need.

[stein_325i]

Two members, nicknaz and ZCD1 should be able to answer any BMW vs Tesla questions you have. I believe they both have Performance 3's.

[5.M0NSTER]

BMW to Tesla ... and back to BMW ... if you care about vehicle dynamics and not just straight line acceleration.

If you don't care about rotation in corners, or on/off throttle oversteer, then Tesla FTW.

[ZCD1]

Originally Posted by Clark_Kent

...Specifically, I would like to know: which Model 3 trim you picked up, your thoughts on the value proposition, driving dynamics/performance, range, battery degradation, resale value, infotainment, cargo capacity, hauling kids around, etc.

I've owned my Model 3 Performance for 18 months and 20K trouble-free miles. On balance, it's the best car I've ever owned in 40+ years.

From my perspective, the Model 3 is an outstanding value regardless of trim, because it easily outperforms ICE vehicles in its class and price range. That's especially so for the Performance trim since the M3/C63/RS5/Giulia QF are all at least $25K more expensive, yet won't keep up in normal/street/daily driving.

The 3's steering is super-quick and accurate and its handling dynamics are on point for most drivers. The euro competitors may have an edge in outright cornering grip or tail-out antics, but those aren't important metrics for everyone.

The range is a complicated question to answer, but I'll simplify it this way: If your average speed matches the EPA's test (48mph, or in the ballpark for city/suburban driving) the car will meet its EPA range of roughly 300 miles. If you go faster, it won't. On the freeway, figure on 230-250 miles at 70-75 mph.

Battery degradation is not something I ever give any thought to. The battery warranty is 8 years and 120K miles, so degradation isn't something that's likely to significantly affect me.

The infotainment system is simply generations ahead of every other system out there. It's super-responsive and intuitive, and the huge screen spoils you for any other manufacturer's offering. It's missing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but I don't miss those at all because I find Tesla's system at least as easy to use since it was optimized for the car's screen.

The front seats are VERY comfortable overall. Perfect for daily driving. They're not as bolstered as the euro competitors' seats, but are more comfortable IMO. The back seats are mounted low to the floor, so some may not find them as comfortable as a higher seat, but the cushions themselves are comfy and the all-glass roof still makes it a nice place to spend time.

Cargo capacity is really good, with a big trunk, a frunk large enough to hold a carry-on suitcase, and a huge underfloor compartment under the trunk that will easily swallow several grocery bags or other stuff.

The downsides for me are a firm-ish ride (though still not as firm as an M3 or C63) and more road noise than would be ideal, though I'm told that newer cars have addressed the road noise issue to some degree.

The basic Enhanced Auto Pilot that's included (automatic lane-keeping and dynamic cruise control) is a boon on long drives, significantly reducing fatigue.

The fact that the Model 3's owner satisfaction level is the highest in the industry says volumes - it's an amazing car, full-stop.

[Clark_Kent]

ZCD1 I appreciate your thoughtful and informative response. This is exactly what I was looking for.

[Hegge]

Originally Posted by Clark_Kent

I lease transferred my 2018 BMW M3 CS about a year ago and I’m now strongly considering a 2020 Tesla Model 3 LR. I’m certain there are quite a few folks here who have picked up a Model 3 as a stablemate to your BMW or to replace a BMW. I’m interested to hear your thoughts and impressions if you’ve taken the leap. Specifically, I would like to know: which Model 3 trim you picked up, your thoughts on the value proposition, driving dynamics/performance, range, battery degradation, resale value, infotainment, cargo capacity, hauling kids around, etc.

A couple of notes: I know this is a BMW forum and not a Tesla forum, and no I’m not interested in posting this on the Tesla.com forum or TMC and I’m not interested in a Tesla vs. BMW debate.

Why not a GT4 or 911?

[Clark_Kent]

Originally Posted by Hegge

Why not a GT4 or 911?

I'll eventually pick one of those up in the coming years but they're simply not in my consideration set at the moment. I also need a daily driver with utility and neither of those cars are suitable for that purpose.

[nicknaz]

My $0.02 is you should get the performance trim level. The suspension and brake upgrades are nice to have, and make the car a really fun street car.

I have a modded 996TT and don’t use it much these days since the model 3P is both exceptional as a commuter and super fun for casual canyon runs with friends.

As for tracking, I have a spec Miata as my track car and have only tracked the model 3P once, on the stock mp4s tires. I really noticed the weight, but the balance was great.

OP, I think there are a few key questions you need to ask yourself:

• Are you expecting this to be a “dual duty” commuter + track car? (stick with your gas car)
• Do the routes you take have clearly marked lanes? (The more clear the markings the better AP works)
• Do you have a 240V outlet in your home or plan to get one? (It’s more convenient)

[..Rush..]

What he said!

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

BMW to Tesla ... and back to BMW ... if you care about vehicle dynamics and not just straight line acceleration.

If you don't care about rotation in corners, or on/off throttle oversteer, then Tesla FTW.

[Gamb1t]

My friend switched from an F30 diesel to a Base Model 3. Seems pretty happy with it. Although I think for road trips he admittedly prefer to take the ICE SUV. Just too much route planning involved.

[nicknaz]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

BMW to Tesla ... and back to BMW ... if you care about vehicle dynamics and not just straight line acceleration.

If you don't care about rotation in corners, or on/off throttle oversteer, then Tesla FTW.

I can’t speak for other people, but I care about vehicle dynamics so much that I started w2w in spec Miata and sold my f80 to get a porsche.

Best solution in my opinion is to move off “do it all” cars and have a combo of fast ev as a family hauler street car and whatever sports or competition car you prefer.

I’m planning to double down on this approach by replacing my wife’s f31 330 with upcoming cyber truck, with the hope of eventually autonomously towing my miata or porsche to the track while I sleep

[sanusense]

I bought a S75. About 10 days later it became a S60. Tesla says it was never a 75 “no record of an update to a 75”. Nothing I can do about it. There are glitches in the company itself, although I'm happy with the car.

[XMetal]

Originally Posted by sanusense

I bought a S75. About 10 days later it became a S60. Tesla says it was never a 75 “no record of an update to a 75”. Nothing I can do about it. There are glitches in the company itself, although I'm happy with the car.

Where's YOUR record of the purchase of it being a S75?

[dreamingat30fps]

I've only had my Model 3 Long Range AWD like 2 weeks, but I do like it a lot. Not a sports car IMO but super fun. Also in normal everyday driving here in flat FL I honestly cannot tell any difference in it's handling vs a 3 series or the likes. I'm sure if you hit up some twisty roads that would change.

There are lots of things that could be improved (and many do get better over time with software updates) and there's minor stuff that 99% of people would never notice, but as an enthusiasts you may, like panels that don't align 100% or panel gaps that vary slightly in size etc.

I went with the Long Range AWD mainly because I wanted the added range over the standard and you get better performance without having to spend performance model money. Keep in mind battery and motor wise the long range awd and the performance model are basically the same. Also Tesla has a software upgrade for the long range awd that will lower your 0-60 from 4.4 to 3.9 and costs $2k (at this time).

As for holding it's value who knows what will happen given this whole pandemic, but I bought mine used and I found used pricing to be crazy. Many dealers were selling the standard range plus cars for MORE than you could buy them new from Tesla. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason to the used Tesla pricing, but I got the overall impression they hold their value well.

I was also expecting the interior to be very cheap, but I was pleasantly surprised. I have the white "premium" interior and while it's very simplistic, all the materials seem of good quality and have a good feel to them. Not sure I have found any cheap plastics so far.

[ZCD1]

Originally Posted by Clark_Kent

ZCD1 I appreciate your thoughtful and informative response. This is exactly what I was looking for.

Happy to help. I wanted to add that the road noise issue is extremely road-surface dependent. Asphalt is very quiet; concrete or aggregate less so.

Also the audio system is really excellent - one of the best I’ve heard.

Have you driven one yet?

[Clark_Kent]

Originally Posted by ZCD1

Happy to help. I wanted to add that the road noise issue is extremely road-surface dependent. Asphalt is very quiet; concrete or aggregate less so.

Also the audio system is really excellent - one of the best I’ve heard.

Have you driven one yet?

I test drove a 2020 Model 3 LR AWD w/ aero wheels. I went in with no expectations so I had quite a bit to unpack and reconcile after it was all said and done. I've driven too many cars in my lifetime and my experience in the Model 3 is at the top of the list. It was an experience unlike any other and I think that's what resonated with me most.

[SSW]

Returned the Chevy Bolt I leased for the last 3 years because the Model 3 wasn't available for over a yr later. It was fine. Doesn't have the "panache" of a Tesla, of course, but it got the job done. It was a 6th car that I only used for local errands and I only put 8k miles on it in the 3yrs.

I leased the Bolt mainly to get rid of my FJ Cruiser (that I traded in w/the deal) and have no political commitment to the notice of driving "green." However, what I really liked was NOT needing to stop in a gas station because I bought a Level 2 charger (that I still have) to use at home and used free public chargers whenever I had the time and was in a location to take advantage of that service. That was nice.

I've driven both the Model 3 and Model S and I prefer the S.

I like the larger center screen and a "normal" speedo screen behind the steering wheel in the Model S that the Model 3 lacks. I do NOT like the featureless front end on the Model 3 that always makes me laugh because it reminds me of "Lightning McQeen" in the cartoon movie "Cars" when I see it. The Model S at least has some front end detailing that makes it look like a car and not a cartoon movie characterization of a car. The Model S is larger and longer (which can be a problem if you lack sufficient garage space but it is also more roomy and drives better IMO.

So, if I were to get another EV and it was a Tesla, I'd get the Model S.

BTW, I own 3 German cars - a Porsche, BMW and MB - and I did not notice that the "fit and finish" of the Model S (or 3) was noticeably "poor" in comparison. That doesn't mean that there aren't problems w/Tesla in this regard (there are many articles pointing out the problem) but they weren't so bad that I noticed them. Of course, I was only renting the car and not buying it. So, the only thing that matters to me when I drove them was that they moved/stopped/turned when and as I wanted then to and they did that.

[5.M0NSTER]

I still dont get why a Tesla would be “unlike anything you’ve driven” after driving a lot of different cars. Outside of ev acceleration or giant iPad in the middle there is nothing different. Just silence.

So I really don’t get it. And I’ve driven all the Tesla’s. S, X and 3. Multiple times. It wears off quick. It’s a big, heavy, silent, quick car. It’s not a space ship. It’s not physics defying experience, its just a car.

[cfm56d7b]

This is fresh off the press:

https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/25/2...quality-survey

For current Tesla owners: what is perspective on this JD Power survey?

[stein_325i]

Most Tesla buyers likely know going in about the quality issues. I doubt things like consumer reports or JD power generally have any influence on their decision. With Tesla, there isn't much competition, and there isn't much like there cars so for those shoppers they are pretty much set on that particular car.