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2025 Tesla Model 3 Performance: A Lap Around VIR

### Introduction The Tesla Model 3 Performance is a formidable force on the track, but can it keep up with the best of them? We put the electric car through its paces at VIR, the Virginia International Raceway, to find out. ### The Car The Tesla Model 3 Performance boasts an impressive 510 horsepower and 4035 pounds of curb weight. Its 7.9 lb/hp power-to-weight ratio makes it a formidable opponent on the track. The car's acceleration is nothing short of stunning, with the 0-60 mph time clocking in at a blistering 3.2 seconds. ### Testing We spent a day on the track, pushing the Model 3 Performance to its limits. The car's regenerative braking system is incredibly effective, slowing the car down rapidly and allowing us to maintain high speeds through even the most challenging corners. The steering is largely devoid of feel, but it's responsive to small corrections, making ...

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### Introduction
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is a formidable force on the track, but can it keep up with the best of them? We put the electric car through its paces at VIR, the Virginia International Raceway, to find out.

### The Car
The Tesla Model 3 Performance boasts an impressive 510 horsepower and 4035 pounds of curb weight. Its 7.9 lb/hp power-to-weight ratio makes it a formidable opponent on the track. The car’s acceleration is nothing short of stunning, with the 0-60 mph time clocking in at a blistering 3.2 seconds.

### Testing
We spent a day on the track, pushing the Model 3 Performance to its limits. The car’s regenerative braking system is incredibly effective, slowing the car down rapidly and allowing us to maintain high speeds through even the most challenging corners. The steering is largely devoid of feel, but it’s responsive to small corrections, making it easy to dial in the perfect setup.

### Results
Our fastest lap time was a respectable 2:58.4, beating out the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N by a hair. While the Ioniq 5 N showed its superior high-speed stability in the Climbing Esses, the Model 3 Performance matched its ability in medium-pace corners. However, the car’s reduced-power mode did trigger during our final lap, resulting in a 9 mph loss of speed.

### Conclusion
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is an incredible electric car that can hold its own on the track. While it may not be the most stable car at high speeds, its acceleration and regenerative braking make it a formidable opponent. For under $100,000, the Model 3 Performance is an unbeatable value.

### Specifications
– Power: 510 hp
– Weight: 4035 pounds
– 0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds
– Top Speed: 155 mph
– Battery: 80 kWh
– Charging: 250 kW DC Fast Charging

### Description
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is a high-performance electric car that can deliver exceptional acceleration and handling. With a lap time of 2:58.4, it’s a formidable opponent on the track.

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