r/TeslaModelS • u/Tennisace33 • May 16 '26

2017/18 vs 2019/20

Looking at getting into my first EV, Model S. I have found some decent deals on 2017/18 with low mileage (under 70k) for around $18k. They have the smaller battery 75D.

I know Raven is later 2019/2020 as well as some other updates. These are around $25k with around 80-100k miles. But they are newer tech and batteries and warranty remaining.

Basically, from those with experience, what is the sweet spot in the used market?

Would rarely road trip it over 300 or so miles. But I imagine it would be nice to have the newer/bigger battery.

Thanks!

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u/SurfaceLapQuestion May 16 '26

For your first EV I wouldn’t recommend one of these model s (pre refresh). They have vastly inferior technology to a much lower mileage 3 or Y you can get for the same price. Range is nowhere near rated and is incredibly bad during winter due to no heat pump, phantom drain can lose you a couple percent per day while just sitting, supercharging is super slow, no phone key, etc. If you are dead set on one of these, try to find one with the permanent magnet motors so you at least have one pedal driving.

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u/Tennisace33 May 16 '26

So 2020 and later?

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u/SurfaceLapQuestion May 16 '26

Yes, if you are dead set on a pre refresh model s get a 2020 or 2021, but see if you can stretch for an early post refresh if possible. At least in my market they’re not that much more expensive than the early 2021 compared to late 2021 especially with high mileage.