Tesla vs Ford

Vehicle Lineup (Winner: Ford) 

Tesla currently offers four different models: Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y. You can choose between an SUV and sedan all of which have 4–5 seats. In the coming years, Tesla plans on releasing new models such as the Cyber Truck and a new Model S.  

Ford offers more variety in its lineup. You’ll find many car size options ranging from a small sedan to a large passenger van. Ford currently sells 12 different models. 

If you are looking for something other than an electric sedan or SUV, Ford is the better option for vehicle variety. 

Fuel Economy (Winner: Tesla) 

Tesla is the largest electric vehicle distributor globally making up 25 percent of global electric vehicle sales. Tesla’s electric vehicles are known for their durability and long-lasting charge. A Tesla model can take you 310 miles before needing another recharge. For traditional automakers, the standard range for most electric car models is around 250 miles. 

The Tesla Cybertruck will be the first truck running completely off of electricity. Even the Ford F-150 Hybrid cannot compete with this level of efficiency. With a Tesla, you will never have to worry about fluctuating gas prices. You will just need to stay up-to-date on the closest charging stations. 

Ford’s most fuel-efficient vehicle is its 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid with 41 highway mpg. The Ford Ranger is one of the most fuel-efficient trucks of 2021 according to Kelly Blue Book. However, these hybrid and gas-powered vehicles cannot compete with the fuel efficiency of Tesla’s all-electric vehicles. 

Tesla’s fully electric lineup makes it a great choice for those looking to save on gas. 

Buyer Convenience (Winner: Ford) 

In 2020, Tesla sold close to 500,000 vehicles while Ford sold around 4.2 million cars worldwide. Tesla’s low production levels make finding a Tesla difficult. Customers who want a Tesla are often added to a waitlist and then given the vehicle months later once it becomes available. Ford is the better choice if you need a new car within a shorter time frame. 

Tesla has 130 stores and showrooms spread out across the United States. In comparison, Ford currently has 3,000 dealerships. If you are looking to buy a Tesla, you may have a hard time finding a dealership where you can test drive or check out the model. 

Tesla’s exclusive lineup makes it challenging for new customers to test drive and purchase a new car quickly. If you are looking for a simple buying experience, choose Ford. 

Safety (Winner: Tesla) 

Tesla vehicles are some of the safest on the road. Tesla engineers its vehicles to provide maximum impact protection and structural integrity. Tesla’s autopilot technology also prevents accidents with sensors and warning notifications. The likelihood of a Tesla vehicle catching on fire from the engine is ten times less than the standard gas-powered vehicles. All of the Tela models earned an overall 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

Some of Ford’s vehicles also receive an NHTSA 5-star rating such as the 2020 Ford Escape SUV and the 2015 to 2019 Ford Expedition. Depending on the model, you can find a Ford with high safety ratings. However, none of the Ford models have as advanced of safety features as the Tesla vehicles. 

If you are looking for a reliable and safe vehicle, Tesla is one of the top choices among car brands. 

Price (Winner: Ford)  

Ford’s new vehicles start at $19,885 MSRP. Most Ford sedans are priced under $30,000 with some of the larger SUVs ranging from $30,00–$50,000. Customers can expect to find a reasonably priced car in the Ford lineup. 

Tesla’s base model starts at $35,000 with the most expensive model starting at $99,000. This is considerably more expensive than many of the Ford vehicles. However, you can expect luxury features and advanced technology on all of Tesla’s models. You may need to upgrade to a higher trim level on a Ford car if you are seeking a similar luxury feel. 

Ford is the best option for price-sensitive buyers. 

Maintenance (Winner: Ford) 

The biggest disadvantage of owning a Tesla is finding a place to schedule maintenance. You cannot take your Tesla to a regular mechanic shop because most mechanics don’t know how to fix these vehicles. You also need to take it to a certified Tesla service center to maintain the warranty. Depending on where you live, you may have to take a long drive to the nearest service station.

However, one unique feature that Tesla offers is mobile maintenance service. Depending on the service needed, your car may qualify for a mobile technician appointment. The Tesla technician will come to where you are at a time that’s convenient for you. 

Ford does not offer any mobile maintenance service, but the automaker does have plenty of service centers spread out across the country. After your warranty expires, you can also take your Ford vehicle to most third-party mechanics. You don’t need to worry about being stranded in a small town during a road trip with no repair options. 

Ford is a more convenient car to maintain especially if you don’t live close to a Tesla service station. However, this comparison could change as Tesla’s mobile maintenance becomes more available across the country. 

Time in Business (Winner: Ford) 

Compared to other car companies, Tesla is a beginner in the automotive industry. Tesla began in 2003 and sold its first vehicle in 2008. Most car companies have been in the business for 50 years or more. The automaker has quickly become a key player in the electric vehicle industry as one of the only profitable EV makers on the market. Tesla models have exclusive technology never before seen in other vehicles. 

Ford has been around for over 100 years. The automaker continues to innovate but rolls out new updates slowly to maintain brand reliability. 

For those looking for a tried and trusted brand, Ford may be the better choice.

Tesla vs. Ford: Which is best?

The Tesla and Ford comparison gets down to the essential factors of a good car. Car buyers want options, good fuel economy, a pleasant buying experience, high safety ratings, reasonable prices, easy maintenance, and a trusted reputation. Based on these criteria, Ford is seen as the better option for those who may be looking for a vehicle outside of the EV market. 

Although this evaluation puts Ford ahead of Tesla, this doesn’t mean Ford is better for you than Tesla. Tesla serves a specific market of individuals who like advanced technology and luxury features. As Tesla continues to innovate and release new models, we may even see the automaker surpass Ford in areas of vehicle options, price, and buying experience. The best way to know which brand is best for you is to experience the vehicle firsthand. 

If you are searching for a new car, determine your desired size and features. Once you have a few models in mind, either head down to a dealership to test drive or sit in the vehicle. You may be able to find a friend or neighbor who can show you their Tesla or even take you for a ride. We also recommend continued research into specific models and specifications.