One Of These EVs Demonstrates That You Can't Pretend Your Way To Performance | Carscoops

      The new Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack faces off against the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

      The Tesla sedan accelerates faster than the Dodge, even though it has less power. While the Model 3 offers more predictable handling, the Charger has stronger performance at higher speeds. Two six-cylinder versions of the revamped Charger will be released soon.

      The all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona has not received a warm reception. Critics argue that it is overly heavy, bulky, and feels somewhat underdeveloped. Moreover, it doesn’t excite as much as the classic V8-powered Challenger. The situation has become so unfavorable that Dodge has decided to discontinue the base Daytona R/T for the 2026 model year, leaving only the Scat Pack available.

      So, how does the Charger Daytona Scat Pack compare to its rivals? Edmunds recently tested it against the Tesla Model 3 Performance, one of the most cost-effective electric performance cars currently available, in their U-Drag race.

      Edmunds’ U-Drag Race pits two vehicles against each other in a straightforward test of acceleration and handling, showcasing real-world drag racing and sharp cornering. It measures how these cars perform when pushed to their limits.

      **Price Discrepancy: More Than Just Figures**

      Let's briefly examine the numbers. The Tesla is priced much lower at $56,630, including destination fees, while the Charger Daytona Scat Pack starts at $70,190 without additional options. If you include some optional features, the price difference nearly increases to $28,000. Both cars qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, but let’s focus on performance for now.

      **Tesla’s Distinct Advantage in Acceleration**

      At the start, the Model 3 Performance holds a clear advantage in acceleration. Tesla claims its twin electric motors produce 510 hp and 554 lb-ft (751 Nm), while Dodge states the Charger Scat Pack generates 670 hp and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm). On paper, it appears to be a close contest. The Dodge, being more powerful, claims a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, while Tesla asserts the Model 3 Performance reaches 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a rollout.

      In practice, the Tesla pulls ahead easily in both races, and even as speeds surpass 60 mph, it continues to widen the gap, reaching the braking point significantly ahead of the Charger. During the first race, the Dodge's driver was able to reduce the distance under braking, but the Model 3 handles more effectively and executes a tighter and quicker U-turn, aided by its more balanced handling, according to the reviewers.

      In their tests, Edmunds recorded a best 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds for the Tesla and 3.7 seconds for the Dodge. The Model 3 then completed the quarter mile in 11.3 seconds at 122.1 mph (196.4 km/h), compared to the 12.0 seconds of the Dodge at 118.7 mph (191.0 km/h). Interestingly, the Charger excelled in lateral grip, achieving a peak of 1.19G versus the Tesla’s 1.13G. However, this advantage was insufficient to compensate for its slower acceleration.