2011 Tesla Roadster vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Tesla Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Tesla Roadster would be higher. In terms of performance, 2011 Tesla Roadster (288 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Tesla Roadster should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1035 kg more than 2011 Tesla Roadster.
Because 2011 Tesla Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Tesla Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Tesla Roadster (400 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (251 Nm). This means 2011 Tesla Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Tesla Roadster | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Tesla | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | T5 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Single Speed | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1852 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1128 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2352 mm | 3410 mm |
