Should I Buy the Model 3 with All-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive?
2 Answers
Here are the differences between the rear-wheel drive Model 3 and the all-wheel drive Model 3: 1. Different production locations: The domestic version of the Model 3 is rear-wheel drive, while the imported version is all-wheel drive. 2. Different models: The domestic version of the Model 3 is a single-motor model, whereas the imported version is a dual-motor model. 3. Different power outputs: The domestic Model 3's motor has a maximum power of 202 kW and a maximum torque of 375 Nm. The imported Model 3 comes in two variants: a Long Range All-Wheel Drive version and a Performance All-Wheel Drive version. The Long Range All-Wheel Drive version has a front motor with a maximum power of 147 kW and a rear motor with 188 kW. The Performance All-Wheel Drive version has a front motor with a maximum power of 147 kW and a rear motor with a maximum power of 211 kW. Regarding the choice between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, it is recommended that users make their selection based on their personal needs.
From a driving perspective, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Model 3 is more appealing to me in terms of performance, especially its astonishing acceleration. The strong push-back feeling at the start is exhilarating, making daily overtaking or high-speed driving exceptionally stable. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version is also good, but the dual-motor design of the AWD makes the car easier to control, especially on rainy days or winding roads, with strong traction that reduces the risk of skidding. Personally, if the budget allows, going straight for the AWD is more enjoyable. Although it's more expensive and has slightly less range—about 5% less battery—the doubled driving pleasure is worth it. I drove a friend's Model 3 AWD on suburban mountain roads, and the body response was much more agile. While the pure RWD is more energy-efficient, it lacks that thrill. Choosing it depends on whether you're someone who loves to experience the joy of driving.