A Fully Loaded BMW i7 Is Way More Expensive Than the Tesla Model S
Regarding the electric vehicle marketplace, Tesla has set the standard for all other luxury EV brands to follow. Initially, Teslas were seen as expensive. However, in recent years, Tesla models have received massive price cuts. Along with these rolling price cuts came new models, including the Tesla Model 3, one of the cheapest new EVs on the market today.
Despite these new, more affordable Tesla models, one summit vehicle from Tesla continues to hold its high price point, and in turn, has held onto its status as one of the world’s top-performing vehicles: the Tesla Model S. When it comes to high-class EV affordability, there is one EV from BMW that is way more expensive than a Tesla Model S in its highest form.
So, how do they compare? Here is everything you need to know about the BMW i7 performance sedan aiming for direct competition with the Tesla Model S.
2024 BMW i7 M70 – price, specs, and features
The BMW i7 is an all-electric full-size luxury sedan, carrying the heritage of the 7 Series in EV form. The i7 comes in a variety of different models, but the top-of-the-line model is the i7 M70. In true BMW M form, the i7 M70 is a true performance sedan that aims to compete with the best performance vehicles in the world. With this high-end M designation comes quite a hefty price tag, starting at $168,500 MSRP, according to BMW.
The i7 M70 comes with an all-wheel drive and dual electric motor drivetrain capable of achieving around 650 horsepower and 749 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is very quick for such a big sedan, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of around 130 mph. BMW also claims the 2024 M70 will have a maximum range of about 295 miles on a single charge.
BMW offers a wide range of extra features for the M70, including premium paint, 21-inch wheels, a full black leather interior, and a wide range of premium packages. The Executive package, for example, adds crystal headlights and automatic doors. The Premium package adds a parking assistant and surround view 3D camera. With the Rear Executive Lounge Seating package, rear passengers get a power rear seat and footrest. With all these options included, the BMW i7 M70 comes out to around $199,950 MSRP.
2024 Tesla Model S Plaid – price, specs, and features
The Tesla Model S in its highest trim level available is the Tesla Model S Plaid. The Model S Plaid has a tri-motor all-wheel drive drivetrain capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds. The Model S Plaid also has a top speed of 200 mph, which is unbelievably fast for any vehicle on the road today, let alone a sedan. According to Tesla, the Model S Plaid’s horsepower rating is just north of 1,000, at 1,020 horsepower.
The Model S Plaid is a Tesla and therefore uses Tesla’s UI system for the onboard entertainment system. While this is no issue, some drivers may have a learning curve when leaving behind their traditional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto setup, such as those found on the BMW i7.
Regarding add-ons for the Tesla Model S Plaid, premium paint and a premium cream interior with carbon fiber accents can be ordered. The infamous Tesla steering yoke can also be added for an additional $250 from the factory. Self Driving capability is also an option, albeit a hefty $15,000 add-on, but this is a necessity if you plan on having your Tesla commute for you. Ultimately, a fully loaded Tesla Model S Plaid comes out to around $128,740 MSRP.
Is the BMW i7 M70 worth it?
To be blunt, the BMW i7 M70 is not worth it in the slightest. Of course, the BMW i7 offers a fantastic luxury EV sedan experience. Take the pricing hurdle out of the equation and just focus on comfort and it’s a no-brainer; the i7 offers an executive interior experience. However, the Tesla Model S provides nearly double the performance and onboard technology for almost half the price of its base form. Additionally, if you’re not a Tesla fan, there are other high-tech and performance-focused EVs that come with much lower price tags.
