2013 Tesla Model S Performance Review

With smooth acceleration, sporty handling, and a 0-to-60 time of just 4.4 seconds, the 2013 Tesla Model S impresses.
Written by Amber Reed
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
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Looking to cut down on fuel costs? The 2013 Tesla Model S offers over 250 miles of battery range, a 0-to-60 time of just 4.4 seconds, and plenty of luxury-level cabin comforts.
While some electric cars have a reputation for being conservitive, boring vehicles aimed at eco-conscious commuters, Tesla’s EVs have always stood out from the crowd. Sure, they have impressive battery range and a quiet cabin, but they also offer a series of potent powertrains, sports car-like performance, and come fully-loaded with cutting-edge tech.
If you’re in the market for a used EV, the 2013 Tesla Model S is worth a look. Here with a full review of the 2013 Model S performance is licensed broker app and
car insurance
expert,
Jerry
. We’ll also help you save on your
Tesla Model S insurance costs
, so keep reading!
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2013 Tesla Model S performance review

The 2013 Tesla Model S isn’t your typical electric car. In fact, it’s anything but. Its 265 miles of battery range is on par with some 2022 EVs, and there’s a Performance trim available with a high-powered electric motor that’s sure to satisfy drivers looking for thrills. 
According to Kelley Blue Book, a 2013 Tesla Model S costs between $39,000 and $44,000 on the used car market, depending on its trim level, features, accident history, and other factors. That’s a great deal, especially when you consider the fact that a fully-loaded 2013 Model S could easily exceed the $100,000 mark back when it was new.
Of course, the Model S isn't the only popular electric vehicle from the 2013 model year. There’s the
Nissan Leaf
, the
Honda Fit
, and the Ford Focus Electric, just to name a few. But the Model S is the only one that offers top-of-the-line engineering and performance specs that still hold up in 2022.

Powertrain options and handling

The 2013 Tesla Model S is available with two powertrains. The base model comes with a 302-horsepower electric motor, while the Performance trim comes with a 362-horsepower motor and a larger battery. Both versions of the car come with rear-wheel drive and a single-speed automatic transmission.
So how do the two engine options stack up? The base model is more affordable than the Performance trim, but it offers less power and acceleration, and because of its smaller battery pack, it also has less battery range. If you’re looking for that 4.4-second 0-to-60 time and improved range, the Performance trim has you covered.

Acceleration, 0 to 60, and top speed

With the base 302-horsepower motor, the 2013 Tesla Model S can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a comfortable 5.9 seconds. That’s more than enough speed for most people, but drivers looking for sportier performance and improved acceleration should look to the Performance trim, which can rip from 0 to 60 in just 4.4 seconds. The 2013 Model S can reach a top speed of 130 miles per hour.
Based on those numbers, the 2013 Model S has no problem keeping up with its gas-powered competitors. For comparison’s sake, here are the 0-to-60 acceleration times for three high-horsepower luxury cars from the 2013 model year.
  • 2013
    BMW M5
    : 4.5 seconds
  • 2013 Audi S8: 4.7 seconds
  • 2013
    Jaguar XF
    : 4.4 seconds

Fuel economy and range

With its large, 85kWh battery pack, the 2013 Model S Performance offers the best-possible driving range, getting about 265 miles per charge and an EPA-estimated 85 MPGe. On the other hand, the base model’s smaller, 60kWh battery reduces that range to 208 miles and gets about 95 MPGe.
Like all Teslas, the 2013 Model S is compatible with the automaker’s nationwide network of superchargers, which can replenish about 200 miles of range after just an hour of charging. There’s also an optional High Power Home Charging Package for the 2013 Model S that includes a set of dual chargers for speedier charging at home power stations.

Tech

At nine years old, the 2013 Model S is missing some standout autonomous driving features, like Tesla’s Autopilot, but it still comes with plenty of cutting-edge tech for its age. It has a massive 17-inch digital display, a rearview camerapower-adjustable and heated front seats, and a power liftgate. You also have the ability to automatically start the car as long as the key is inside the vehicle by pressing down on the brake and putting the car into the drive—no push button start or key insert needed.
A seven-speaker stereo comes standard, but both trims could be upgraded with the optional 12-speaker premium sound system. All models include USB inputs, internet radio, WiFi connectivity, and access to internet-based navigation
MORE: Gifts for Tesla owners

How to save on Tesla Model S insurance

Buying an electric vehicle like the 2013 Model S can lead to some major savings when it comes to fuel costs. But those savings might be offset by the Model S’ high car insurance costs.
Electric cars can often be more expensive to insure than their gas-powered or hybrid counterparts, simply because their electric motors and high-tech parts usually cost more to fix if they’re damaged in an accident. This means that car insurance companies might try and account for the cost of your future claims by charging you a higher rate—especially for optional coverages like
collision
and
comprehensive insurance
.
But that doesn’t mean you have to accept the first high-priced insurance policy that comes your way. Instead, use the
Jerry
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licensed broker
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