Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 124 mpg combined versus 26 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a 98 mpg advantage and costs about $2,300 less per year to fuel.
Across 4 measured categories, the Tesla Model S leads in 4. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2027
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Large Cars · 106 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz S-Class | Tesla Model S |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 26 mpg | 124 mpg ✓ |
| Best city MPG | 24 mpg | 132 mpg ✓ |
| Best highway MPG | 31 mpg | 116 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,900 | $600 ✓ |
| Lowest CO2 output | 106 g/mi | Not available |
| Engines offered | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, 6.0, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI | Not available |
| Transmissions | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd | Automatic (A1) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium, Premium and Electricity | Electricity |
| EPA class | Large Cars | Large Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2027 | 2015–2026 |
| Configurations on record | 106 | 62 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
S-Class vs Model S: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or the Tesla Model S?
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 124 mpg combined versus 26 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a 98 mpg advantage and costs about $2,300 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Tesla Model S runs about $600 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,900 for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class — a difference of roughly $2,300 per year.
What engines do the S-Class and Model S offer?
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, 6.0, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI. Tesla Model S: no engine data on record.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Tesla Model S as Large Cars, so they compete directly.
More S-Class comparisons
Comparison id: mercedes-benz-s-class-vs-tesla-model-s