A little over a year ago, soon after Tesla announced firm pricing on the Model S, I undertook a little exercise to determine whether the Model S was a good deal in comparison to another, very comparable, luxury performance sedan. In the subsequent year, a few things have come into better focus. And, faced with the need to charge or get off the charger, I revisted my analysis. Having now finalized my Model S order (and while I await my car’s delivery sometime in the next few weeks), here’s how I see it.
My Road to a Tesla
Three years and one month ago, I put down a $5000 deposit on a Tesla Model S all-electric luxury sedan. The car began production in 2012, with the first deliveries starting in the Summer. Having reserved early, I was one of the first in line behind those who paid a premium (including $40k deposit) for a “Signature” model.

