Tesla Model S vs Tesla Model Y
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Tesla Model S | Tesla Model Y | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 670 | 299 | +124.1% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 949 | 420 | +126.0% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 17.5 | 12.0 | +45.8% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $76,500 | $59,508 | +28.6% |
- Tesla Model S makes about 124% more power (670 vs 299 hp).
- Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 17.5.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (US and EU); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: Model S or Model Y?
Tesla Model S advantages
- Engine power (+55%)
- Pulling torque (+56%)
Tesla Model Y advantages
- Energy efficiency (+31%)
- Affordability (+22%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
Tesla Model S delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Tesla Model S vs Tesla Model Y: which should you choose?
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.
Tesla Model Y (2026 RWD (Juniper)) — electric suv with 299 hp and 420 Nm, rated at 12 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $59,508 in the EU market.
Tesla Model S vs Tesla Model Y: Tesla Model S is more powerful. Tesla Model S makes about 124% more power (670 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 17.5.
Performance
The Tesla Model S is the more powerful, at 670 hp against 299 hp, with 949 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a 1-speed automatic transmission.
Running costs
The Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, drawing 12.0 kWh/100km against 17.5 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
Tesla Model S is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and Tesla Model Y 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Tesla Model Y lists lower at about $59,508 (USD-converted from the EU 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 Tesla Model S better than the Tesla Model Y?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. Tesla Model S makes about 124% more power (670 vs 299 hp).
What is the main difference between the Tesla Model S and the Tesla Model Y?
Tesla Model S makes about 124% more power (670 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 17.5.
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 Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
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.