Tesla Model X Long Range vs Mercedes S 500 4MATIC Saloon, long version W223: which is truly faster?

Off the line, the Model X Long Range hits 100 km/h in 4.11 s versus 4.45 s for the S 500 4MATIC Saloon, long version. The instant torque of 660 Nm from the electric motor makes the difference. Despite the faster sprint time, the S 500 4MATIC Saloon, long version is 4 m further along the track at this moment: stronger low-speed acceleration offsets a slower run beyond 100 km/h.

At 200 metres, the Model X Long Range is doing 160 km/h against 145 km/h for the S 500 4MATIC Saloon, long version. The gap is 0.27 s. The gap remains stable from the start.

At 400 metres standing start, the Model X Long Range crosses the line in 11.92 s versus 12.59 s. The 0.66 s gap represents roughly 33 m of track - a gap visible to the naked eye.

Past 400 metres, the Model X Long Range continues to build its lead. At 600 metres, it runs at 224 km/h versus 207 km/h. At 1,000 metres, the Model X Long Range finishes in 21.31 s versus 22.69 s, with a 1.38 s lead. Both vehicles have similar top speeds (250 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) vs 250 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) km/h), preventing any comeback.

Both rivals share the same electronic speed cap: the Model X Long Range and the S 500 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 6.84 seconds. The 0.34 s difference in 0 to 100 km/h is mostly felt in motorway merging and overtaking.