Last year, Tesla came close to claiming the title of the world’s best-selling nameplate. However, Toyota recalculated the numbers and ultimately reclaimed the top spot with the help of its long-standing Corolla series, after initially losing to the RAV4 compact crossover SUV. This achievement was only possible by combining Corolla Cross sales with the rest of Toyota’s passenger car lineup.
Despite this, Tesla’s Model Y missed out on a significant accolade that would have validated Elon Musk’s vision from years ago. Nevertheless, it remains a remarkable achievement for Tesla to secure first place in Europe, fifth place in the United States, and second place worldwide. If Tesla had considered the Model 3 and Model Y as a single series, they would have emerged as the victors. Speaking of the Model 3, even though it serves as the entry-level option in Tesla’s lineup, it still captivates enthusiasts, despite the absence of the Plaid variant.
For instance, the Model 3 has proven itself as a formidable contender on local quarter-mile dragstrips, where electric vehicles (EVs) have become a serious threat to high-performance cars. Nowadays, only modified vehicles seem capable of challenging the Model 3 and claiming victory. However, don’t just take our word for it; we have a concrete example to support this claim.
The dedicated team behind the ‘ImportRace’ YouTube channel, which focuses on racing, frequently participates in drag races at Island Dragway. Occasionally, they also engage in roll races at Bradenton Motorsports Park in Florida, where the traditional quarter-mile format has temporarily been replaced by 40 mph rolls. During one of these races, they encountered an impressive Tesla Model 3. This particular Model 3 featured a striking black hood and dark wheels that contrasted with its white body. It went head-to-head with two S550 Ford Mustang GTs, with the Mustang proving to be a formidable opponent. Despite almost losing control at 40 mph (64 mph), the Mustang ultimately secured a resounding victory. The Model 3 also faced off against a Cadillac ATS, but the Tesla Model S demonstrated its dominance as a modern EV.
Subsequently, a boosted S550 Ford Mustang GT eagerly showcased its capabilities and triumphed over the Model 3, once again highlighting the ongoing battle between internal combustion engines (ICE) and EVs. Lastly, an Audi with a worn appearance dared to challenge the EV sedan, leaving a lasting impression on all those present with its impressive exhaust pops and bangs. Undoubtedly, this was not the Model 3’s most successful outing, but who could have predicted a decade ago that we would be using EVs as benchmarks for high-performance vehicles?
According to the Source autoevolution.com