Tesla caught the automotive world napping when it burst onto the scene in 2012 to show off its all-new Model S. The US electric car rage demonstrated that there was a serious appetite for EV’s with a premium price tag, and ever since then, car markers around the world have been frantically developing competitors to cash in on the ever-increasing rage.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of them, and one of the most groundbreaking Fords that we have seen for a generation. To put this exciting new electric crossover to the test, there’s only one car fit for the job: the Tesla Model 3. This innovative Tesla creation sets the benchmark when it comes to premium, desirable and economical electric motoring. Both cars maintain around 265 hp, with them both being able to cover up to 270 miles on a single charge. Only $2,095 separates them on price. Let’s delve into them both and see which one comes out on top.
What Is The Design And Engineering Like In The Ford Mustang Mach-E?
What did you think of when you first heard about the Ford Mustang Mach-E? Did ‘muscle car’ spring to mind? Probably. Although it holds the name Mustang, this 4,000-lb electric crossover has hardly anything in common with the iconic sports cars that hold the same name. Proportionally, the Ford is the larger of the two cars here. The Mustang is fractionally longer than the Tesla and ever so slightly wider. However, Ford has brought forward a clever design trick by blackening the top sections of the C-pillars to trick you into thinking it looks more athletic and sleeker than it is. Ford has also replaced its door handles with a small button which pops the doors open when you touch it. The main benefit is an improvement in aerodynamic efficiency, meaning better range, which is the holy grail for an electric car. Ford claims up to 273 miles should be achievable on a single charge, which is almost identical to what the Tesla can muster. A maximum charging range of 115kW means that the fastest possible battery top-up will take only 38 minutes.
Does The Mach-E Drive Well Or Not?
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0-60mph takes 6.9 seconds, which is far from slow, but up against the Tesla there’s a notable gulf in performance, despite both cars packing similar amounts of power. With an extra 350lbs of weight, this certainly counts against the Mustang here, and off the line the Mustang feels more lethargic. Once the Mach-E is up to speed, it is eager to pile on the pace, but still falls short of keeping up with the Tesla. The main benefit of the Mustang Mach-E is the amount of free space in the cabin, making it no trouble to sit three adults in the back. The crossover body also means good headroom throughout. The boot is quite small given the size of the car, but there is an additional area for storage in the nose of the car, so plenty of space overall. It is predicted that the Mach-E will hold onto 54% of its value in three years, meaning that in 2025 it will be worth almost $25,000 and now holds a price tag of $42,895.
So, What Is The Tesla Model 3 Like In Comparison?.jpg)
The Model 3 Standard Range is the entry point to Tesla ownership. Coming in at $44,990, it’s slightly more expensive than the Ford, but it does offer more performance and slightly better range. Is that enough for Tesla to remain the EV champ? The Model 3 is shorter and lower than the Mach-E and is lighter, so despite a smaller battery, it’s official 278-mile range exceeds that of the Fords by 5 miles. Comparing the Tesla’s 271 hp versus the Fords 265 hp, the Tesla comes out on top, with 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds. It is also much faster to charge, taking only 16 hours instead of 21 hours 45 minutes with the Ford.
Is The Tesla Better To Drive?
An impressive accessory is the Model 3’s mid-speed acceleration. Smash the throttle at 30mph and the Tesla leaps forward with real energy, allowing you to swiftly overtake other vehicles. At lower speeds, the Tesla is refined and composed, with a ‘one pedal’ driving function that brings the car to a stop without the usual sharp feel. Although the Model 3 is very quick, it feels quite numb to drive and is less engaging than the Mach-E.
The Tesla trumps the Ford when it comes to carrying capacity, with a much bigger luggage bay. But because it’s a saloon, the openings and space within the cabin aren’t as useful as the Fords. There is no under floor storage area to keep the charging cables out of sight, unlike the Mach-E. Whether you buy with cash or on a monthly PCP lease deal, the Model 3 is more expensive at $44,021. Compared to the Ford being estimated to keep 54% of its value, the Tesla is estimated to keep 57%. Meaning it’ll be worth over $25,000 in 2025.
Ford Vs Tesla: Which One Is The Better Choice?
There is no doubt that the Mach-E is well-rounded, practical, and attractively priced. It’s unable to match the Tesla’s straight-line performance, but the ride and handling balance are superior. Add in the generous kit list, and the Mustang Mach-E takes the victory on this one.