The rise of electric vehicles has brought with it a new era of high-performance, environmentally friendly motoring. And when it comes to top-down fun, two electric cabrios that have been making waves recently are the BMW i8 Roadster and the Tesla Model S Plaid. Both cars are sleek, high-performance machines that offer a unique driving experience, but which one is the better choice for you?
Design and Styling
The BMW i8 Roadster is a futuristic-looking sports car with a low and wide stance, aggressive lines, and striking butterfly doors. The Roadster is the convertible version of the i8 coupe and features a retractable hardtop roof that can be opened in just 15 seconds, making it the perfect car for a sunny day drive.
The Tesla Model S Plaid, on the other hand, is a sleek and modern electric sedan that has been transformed into a cabriolet with a soft top roof. The Model S Plaid’s clean lines, angular design, and aerodynamic shape give it a unique, sporty look that sets it apart from other convertibles on the market.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, both the BMW i8 Roadster and the Tesla Model S Plaid are impressive machines. The BMW i8 Roadster is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produce a combined 369 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The i8 Roadster can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.
The Tesla Model S Plaid, on the other hand, boasts three electric motors that produce a staggering 1,020 horsepower and 967 lb-ft of torque. The Model S Plaid can reach 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world. And with a range of up to 390 miles on a single charge, the Model S Plaid offers a level of practicality that is unmatched by the BMW i8 Roadster.
Interior and Features
When it comes to the interior, both the BMW i8 Roadster and the Tesla Model S Plaid offer a high level of comfort and technology. The BMW i8 Roadster has a sleek and modern interior that is trimmed with high-quality materials and features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment system. The Roadster also comes with a full suite of driver assistance and safety features, including lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.
The Tesla Model S Plaid, on the other hand, has a minimalist and futuristic interior that is dominated by a 17-inch touchscreen display. The Model S Plaid’s infotainment system is one of the most advanced on the market and features over-the-air updates, voice control, and the ability to play video games. The Model S Plaid also has a full suite of advanced driver assistance features, including autopilot, Navigate on Autopilot, and Smart Summon.
Conclusion
The BMW i8 Roadster and the Tesla Model S Plaid are both excellent electric cabrios that offer a unique driving experience. The BMW i8 Roadster is a high-performance sports car that offers a sleek and modern design, excellent handling, and a comfortable interior. The Tesla Model S Plaid, on the other hand, is a high-performance electric sedan that offers unmatched performance.