Insane Tesla Model S Deals: 200K Miles for $9K, Ludicrous for $12K!

Used Tesla Model S Prices Plummet: Get Performance and FSD for Less Than $13,000

Forget new car prices. If you’ve been dreaming of a Tesla Model S, now might be your chance to snag one for pennies on the dollar. We’re talking about seriously impressive performance and even Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability for less than the cost of a used economy car. Ben, a known Tesla enthusiast with a passion for finding incredible deals, has just acquired not one, but two 2019 Tesla Model S sedans that are turning heads for all the right reasons – mainly their unbelievably low prices.

These aren’t just any used Teslas; they represent what many consider the peak of the Model S era, featuring the desirable MCU 2 infotainment system, permanent magnet motors for better efficiency, and the convenience of one-pedal driving. Let’s dive into what makes these deals so remarkable and whether they’re worth considering.

The First Bargain: A 200,000-Mile Model S for $9,000

Ben’s first recent acquisition is a 2019 Tesla Model S Raven standard range with a 75 kWh battery pack. This car came with a staggering 250,000 miles on the odometer (now around 268,000) and was purchased for an astonishing $9,000. To sweeten the deal, it included the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package. While the battery has seen some degradation, leading to a slightly sketchy experience below 15% charge, it still performs remarkably well for its age and mileage. In fact, during performance testing, it actually beat its original manufacturer-claimed 0-60 mph time.

The 2019 Model S Raven is a significant car. It features Tesla’s premium interior with the next-generation seats, which were a major upgrade from earlier models. These seats offer a comfortable and supportive experience, and the overall cabin design, with its vertical screen and excellent driving position, still feels modern. Even with high mileage, the interior materials, particularly the white interior option, have held up exceptionally well, a testament to Tesla’s build quality during this period. The car also benefits from the 8-year unlimited-mile drivetrain warranty, which is a huge plus for high-mileage EVs.

Performance and Battery Health

For a car with over a quarter-million miles, its performance is impressive. The 0-60 mph runs were recorded at around 4.2 seconds on factory OEM tires, proving that even with age, the powertrain remains potent. However, the battery’s degradation means charging speeds are significantly impacted. While new, this model would have offered an EPA-estimated range of around 345 miles. Now, it struggles with fast charging, topping out in the mid-130s kW range and tapering off quickly. At 50% state of charge, it might only pull around 65-70 kW, making road trips more challenging.

Despite the charging limitations, Ben reports the car is still daily drivable and a joy to own, especially considering the price. The unlimited mileage drivetrain warranty is a key factor, especially since this specific car already had its front motor replaced with a remanufactured unit. The hope is that by pushing the battery, a warranty replacement might be in its future.

The Second Find: A Ludicrous Performance Model S for $12,000

Undeterred by the first bargain, Ben found another 2019 Model S, this time a Performance model with Ludicrous Plus capability. This one has a slightly lower mileage, around 201,000 miles, and was purchased for just over $12,000, also including FSD. This model offers significantly more punch, with a manufacturer-claimed 0-60 mph time likely in the 2.7-second range. Activating Ludicrous Plus requires a one-hour battery preconditioning period, but the result is exhilarating acceleration.

This second Model S also boasts the highly sought-after white interior, which looks remarkably well-preserved even with over 200,000 miles. The interior features the desirable round steering wheel and a comfortable seating position, a hallmark of this generation of Model S. While it doesn’t have the premium dash material found in newer models, the overall ambiance remains luxurious.

Charging and Range Expectations

Crucially, the 100 kWh battery pack in this Performance model charges significantly better than the 75 kWh pack in the first car. While still not matching the speeds of the latest EVs, it can pull over 150 kW, potentially closer to 200 kW on V3 Superchargers. This improved charging capability, combined with a higher original EPA range of 345 miles, makes it a more viable option for longer journeys. The car also features the ‘Cheetah Stance’ mode, which optimizes the battery for maximum acceleration performance.

Who Are These Cars For?

These high-mileage, deeply discounted Model S sedans are perfect for enthusiasts who understand the nuances of used EVs and are looking for maximum performance and features for their money. They appeal to buyers who can perform basic maintenance or have access to reliable independent EV repair services, as Tesla service can be costly and sometimes unpredictable, especially with older vehicles. The inclusion of FSD is a major draw, offering a glimpse into advanced driver-assistance features for a fraction of the original cost.

For someone who primarily uses their car for daily commuting or shorter trips, the battery degradation on the first car might be a non-issue, especially given its price. The Performance model, with its better charging and more power, offers a more well-rounded experience for those who want to occasionally venture further or simply enjoy the thrill of rapid acceleration. The value proposition is undeniable: getting into a luxury electric sedan with cutting-edge (for its time) technology and impressive performance for under $13,000 is an incredible deal.

The Verdict: Unbeatable Value for the Savvy Buyer

Ben’s acquisitions highlight a growing trend: the significant depreciation of early high-end EVs. While these cars have accumulated substantial mileage, their core technology, performance capabilities, and luxury features remain compelling. The 2019 Model S Raven and Performance models represent a sweet spot, offering the best of Tesla’s engineering before the major design overhauls of later years. If you’re willing to overlook minor imperfections, understand the limitations of older battery technology, and appreciate a bargain, these used Model S sedans offer an unparalleled entry into the world of premium electric vehicles. For under $13,000, you get a lot of car, a lot of technology, and a lot of fun.

Source: My Friend Bought Another Super Cheap Tesla Model S Raven w/ 200k Miles! Ludicrous Performance & FSD (YouTube)