Tesla Model X Long Range vs Mercedes S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version W223: which is truly faster?

Off the line, the S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version hits 100 km/h in 4.04 s versus 4.30 s for the Model X Long Range. Despite lacking instant torque, 537 hp of power compensates. At this point, the S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version leads by 0.26 s and sits roughly 9 m ahead.

At 200 metres, the S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version is doing 153 km/h against 158 km/h for the Model X Long Range. The gap is 0.19 s. The gap remains stable from the start.

At 400 metres standing start, the S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version crosses the line in 12.07 s versus 12.14 s. The 0.07 s gap represents roughly 4 m of track - barely a car length.

Past 400 metres, the situation changes. Past 400 metres, both rivals hit the same electronic ceiling at 250 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) km/h. Neither can claw back ground through top speed - the outcome hinges on the acceleration curve between 100 and 250 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) km/h.

At 1,000 metres, the Model X Long Range finishes in 21.65 s versus 21.70 s. The 0.05 s delta shows an extremely tight race.

Both rivals share the same electronic speed cap: the Model X Long Range and the S 580 4MATIC Saloon, long version are governed to 249 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) km/h. At that speed, standard-fit tyres approach their safety threshold - an industrial ceiling common to most electric vehicles in this segment. Neither car shows its true aerodynamic potential in this duel.

Instant electric torque gives an advantage off the line. The higher top speed of the combustion engine gives an advantage over longer distances. The distance at which one catches the other depends on the top speed differential.

In European road use (130 km/h max), both vehicles reach the legal speed limit in under 6.07 seconds. The 0.26 s difference in 0 to 100 km/h is mostly felt in motorway merging and overtaking.