2017 Tesla Model S 100D

Description

Welcome to the new generation of classics. This 2017 Tesla Model S 100D is a benchmark year for a benchmark all-electric car. And so to have one that's powerful, luxurious, fast, and distinct means you're going to love it even if you don't care about being eco-friendly.

The Model S is absolutely a new car but we're fine with selling it because we also know it will be a future classic. That's because it set the bar for what an electric car could really be. It's not even the first Tesla, but the Roadster was about being a playboy's toy, and this was about executive-level travel. So we're happy to see the Obsidian Black Metallic paint looking like black ice on this low-mileage example. Deeply tinted windows and smoked 21-inch wheels all add to this dark sophistication. In fact, this one looks like it could slip through the midnight air undetected in its electric silence. After all, Tesla designed these to be as aerodynamic as possible, and so every curve looks super-slick just to channel the air. Even the alloys look like jet turbines. They were so obsessed with reducing drag that the door handles even fit flush into the body when not in use. It's the kind of detail usually reserved for supercars, and it's this attention to this level of style that makes the Model S radiate an upper-class feeling.

Of course, establishing a luxury image also has to do with the interior. The cream leather is a terrific option that adds the right contrast to the dark carpeting, trim, and windows to give this the same premium attractiveness as a tuxedo. Of course, low mileage and great care also are part of this car's sharp style. You're loaded with the best features like multi-zone automatic climate control, power windows, power locks, keyless entry/ignition, power mirrors, heated seats, a tilt/telescopic steering column, dual airbags, side airbags, a Bluetooth stereo, and a panoramic sunroof. But those are also the kind of features you get in a roomy sedan from Mercedes or Jaguar. What makes a Tesla different is all the technology on top of this. The central control screen is like the true core of the car. You are in command of the full vehicle, including the enhanced autopilot, WiFi hub, voice-activated controls, HD backup camera, and more.

What makes the 2017 Model S a benchmark is that this debuted the 100D trim. This upgraded the battery and motors to make it one of the quickest vehicles on the streets while also making it the first vehicle to break the 300-mile range barrier when new. It's hard to get into the specifications without giving a dissertation on converting electric knowledge to comparable gas-powered data. So if you don't already know about electric vehicles, we suggest looking at the included window sticker or start reading reviews. Instead, we're just going to remind you how the two electric motors are amazing at delivering instant torque while creating barely a buzz. So you can wiz past a booming V8 Corvette even at highway speeds, and really get to hear all those furious downshifts fade away as he hopelessly tries to catch up. Yes, the electric revolution is that cool and quick when you have the right weapon. But the Model S is also a luxury cruiser, and that's where the silence really is golden. It combines with the nice ride, sharp handling, and the surefootedness of all-wheel drive to create the kind of confident feeling that stays with you all day.

This set a new benchmark in electric cars, and that's why it's still such an awesome machine today. And we even bet there will be plenty of people who will appreciate it in the future. That's why this one belongs at Streetside Classics today, and it belongs in your garage tomorrow.