Tesla Model S (2012)SsmIntrigue, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tesla Model S P85D

2012 — USA

Luxury CarSedanAmerican4WD / AWDRecord BreakersElectric PioneersOver 500 Horsepower
EngineDual Electric Motor
Power691 hp
Torque713 lb-ft
TransmissionSingle-speed reduction gear (front and rear)
DrivetrainAWD (dual motor)
Body StyleSedan
0–60 mph3.2 sec
Top Speed155 mph
BrakesDisc (ventilated, 4-piston calipers) / Disc (ventilated, single-piston calipers)
SuspensionIndependent, double wishbones, air springs, adaptive damping / Independent, multi-link, air springs, adaptive damping

Tesla Model S P85D

The Tesla Model S P85D represented a significant milestone in the electric vehicle revolution, demonstrating that an electric luxury sedan could deliver supercar-rivaling acceleration while carrying five adults in comfort. The 'D' indicated dual motors (one on each axle), providing all-wheel drive and a combined output of 691 horsepower. While the listing indicates 2012 (when the Model S was introduced), the P85D variant was launched in late 2014.

The P85D's dual-motor configuration produced 691 combined horsepower, with the rear motor providing 470 hp and the front motor 221 hp. The instant torque delivery from both motors, channeled through all four wheels, created acceleration that was unlike anything else in the luxury sedan segment. Tesla marketed the P85D's most aggressive acceleration mode as 'Insane Mode,' later surpassed by 'Ludicrous Mode' on updated versions.

The 85 kWh battery pack provided a range of approximately 253 miles, adequate for daily commuting and most road trips. The Tesla Supercharger network, which was rapidly expanding during the P85D's production, made long-distance electric travel practical for the first time. The ability to charge to 80% capacity in approximately 40 minutes at a Supercharger station transformed the electric vehicle from an urban commuter into a genuine touring car.

The Model S cabin was centered around a 17-inch touchscreen that controlled virtually every vehicle function, from climate control to suspension settings. The interior was spacious and refined, with room for five adults and a generous trunk. The absence of an internal combustion engine allowed for a front trunk ('frunk') that provided additional storage. The overall interior ambiance was modern, minimalist, and technology-forward.

Performance figures were remarkable for a four-door luxury sedan: 0-60 mph in approximately 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). These figures placed the P85D among the fastest accelerating production sedans in the world, regardless of powertrain type. The all-wheel-drive system provided confident traction in all weather conditions.

The Model S P85D represented a turning point in the automotive industry's acceptance of electric vehicles as genuine performance cars. Its combination of practicality, luxury, and devastating acceleration demonstrated that electric propulsion was not merely an environmental choice but a superior technology for many aspects of automobile performance.

$30,000 – $55,000

Battery condition and remaining capacity are the most important factors. Request the battery health report from Tesla. Check for any service bulletins or recalls that have been addressed. The air suspension should be tested at all ride heights. The 17-inch touchscreen should function properly without dead spots. Check for panel gaps and paint quality, which varied on early production cars. The drive unit should be checked for any unusual noises. Verify Supercharger access is active.

Built at Tesla's factory in Fremont, California (the former NUMMI plant). The Model S has been in production since 2012, with the P85D variant available from late 2014.