Rivian R1T vs Tesla Model S
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Rivian R1T | Tesla Model S | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 600 | 670 | -10.4% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 813 | 949 | -14.3% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 29.9 | 17.5 | +70.9% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | 1-Speed Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $73,000 | $76,500 | -4.6% |
- Tesla Model S makes about 10% more power (670 vs 600 hp).
- Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 29.9.
Verdict: R1T or Model S?
Rivian R1T advantages
- Affordability (+5%)
Tesla Model S advantages
- Engine power (+10%)
- Pulling torque (+14%)
- Energy efficiency (+41%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Rivian R1T if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Tesla Model S delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Rivian R1T vs Tesla Model S: which should you choose?
Rivian R1T (2022 Adventure Dual-Motor) — electric pickup with 600 hp and 813 Nm, rated at 29.9 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $73,000 in the US market.
Tesla Model S (2026 Dual Motor AWD) — electric sedan with 670 hp and 949 Nm, rated at 17.5 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $76,500 in the US market.
Rivian R1T vs Tesla Model S: Tesla Model S is more powerful. Tesla Model S makes about 10% more power (670 vs 600 hp). Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 29.9.
Performance
The Tesla Model S is the more powerful, at 670 hp against 600 hp, with 949 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a 1-speed automatic transmission.
Running costs
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, drawing 17.5 kWh/100km against 29.9 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
Rivian R1T is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and Tesla Model S 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Rivian R1T lists lower at about $73,000 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Rivian R1T better than the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S takes the overall edge, though Rivian R1T wins in specific areas worth weighing. Tesla Model S makes about 10% more power (670 vs 600 hp).
What is the main difference between the Rivian R1T and the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S makes about 10% more power (670 vs 600 hp). Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 29.9.
Which is better value?
Tesla Model S delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Rivian R1T if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.