Here is an outline of the benefits of the 2013 Tesla Model S 85 (USA).
The „85“ denotes the 85 kWh battery pack, which was the longest-range option available at the time. As a 2013 model, this is a first-generation Model S—a pivotal car that proved EVs could be desirable, practical, and fast.
I. Powertrain & Performance
Instant Torque: Electric motor delivers 100% torque from 0 rpm. The S85 produces ~362 hp and accelerates 0–60 mph in roughly 5.4–5.6 seconds.
Single-Speed Transmission: No gear shifts—smooth, linear, and silent acceleration.
Rear-Wheel Drive: Balanced weight distribution and a low center of gravity (floor-mounted battery) give excellent handling for a large sedan.
Top Speed: Around 130 mph (electronically limited).
II. Range & Charging
85 kWh Battery: EPA-rated range of approximately 265 miles—class-leading for 2013 and still usable for most daily driving today.
Supercharger Access: Free unlimited Supercharging was included with many 2013 Model S vehicles (transferable in some cases)—a major ongoing value.
Fast Charging: Superchargers could add ~150–200 miles in ~30–40 minutes (at the time, up to 120 kW).
Home Charging: Overnight charging via a 240V outlet or Tesla Wall Connector.
Battery Longevity: The 85 kWh pack has proven relatively durable; many examples still retain 85–90% capacity.
III. Technology & Infotainment (Revolutionary for 2013)
17-Inch Portrait Touchscreen: The centerpiece—controlled nearly all vehicle functions. Unprecedented at the time.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Tesla pioneered this; the car improved over time via software updates (new features, bug fixes, performance tweaks).
Digital Instrument Cluster: Fully configurable 12.3-inch display.
Navigation with Supercharger Routing: Integrated trip planning.
Smartphone App Control: Pre-conditioning, charging status, remote unlock, honking, etc.
Autopilot Hardware (Pre-Autopilot): Early 2013 cars lack Autopilot hardware; later 2013 builds may have it. Worth verifying by VIN.
IV. Practicality & Space
Two Trunks (Frunk + Rear): Front trunk adds extra storage; rear hatch is spacious.
Flat-Folding Rear Seats: Expands cargo capacity significantly.
Seating for 5 (or 7 with Rear-Facing Jump Seats): Optional child jump seats in the trunk (a unique feature).
Generous Legroom: Flat floor (no transmission tunnel) improves rear passenger comfort.
Sleek Aerodynamics: Drag coefficient of ~0.24—still impressive today.
V. Safety
NHTSA 5-Star Rating: Achieved across all categories (a first for an EV at the time).
Rigid Body Structure: Reinforced aluminum and boron steel; the battery pack adds structural rigidity.
Low Rollover Risk: Battery placement lowers the center of gravity.
Advanced Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags standard.
VI. Ownership Experience & Cost of Ownership
Low Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, transmission fluid, or exhaust systems. Fewer moving parts = fewer failures.
Regenerative Braking: Extends brake pad life significantly.
Fuel Savings: Electricity is far cheaper per mile than gasoline.
Free Supercharging (on many examples): Eliminates long-distance fuel costs.
OTA Updates: Kept the car feeling modern for years.
VII. Environmental Benefits
Zero Tailpipe Emissions: No CO2, NOx, or particulates.
Lower Carbon Footprint: Even accounting for grid electricity, lifecycle emissions are lower than a comparable ICE sedan.
Recyclable Battery: Tesla has a battery recycling program.
VIII. Design & Brand Prestige
Timeless Styling: The Model S design (2012–2021) still looks modern.
Luxury Positioning: Competed with BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, and Audi A6.
Pioneer Status: The car that mainstreamed EVs—owning one is owning a piece of automotive history.
Strong Owner Community: Active forums, clubs, and aftermarket support.
IX. Key Selling Points Summary
Long Range for Its Era: ~265 miles still covers most daily needs.
Free Supercharging (if applicable): Huge value for road-trippers.
Low Running Costs: Minimal maintenance and cheap „fuel.“
OTA Updates: The car improves over time.
Pioneering Tech: The 17-inch screen and EV architecture were revolutionary.
Practical Luxury: Spacious, fast, safe, and stylish.