2015.03.08 TESLA Model S

515 kW (691 HP) 930 N-m (686 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in a blink past 3 seconds. The TESLA P85D is just beastly, and I drove it.

In person, in the driver's seat, it's not as beastly as the numbers would suggest. YES, the launch is giggle-inducing, but it also feels well-controlled. The traction and low center of gravity help make the more dramatically athletic aspects of the drive feel fully within my skill set to command. Which is not to say that it wasn't massively grin-inducing or heart-pounding, because it really really was.

But, here's the interesting part. The old top-spec P85+, with a mere 350 kW (470 hp) felt just as nimble/capable, with 90% of the giggle-factor with the angry pedal. A casual review of local listings reveals a couple potentials at 40-kilobucks below the price of a new P85D, which makes them a massive bargain.

Or so I seem to be chanting to myself as I count all my pennies.

Soon, I hope. Soon. Though, to be sane, I need to test-drive an M3 first.