Tesla Model S vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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 | Tesla Model S | Mercedes-Benz S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 124 mpg ✓ | 26 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 132 mpg ✓ | 24 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 116 mpg ✓ | 31 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $600 ✓ | $2,900 |
| Lowest CO2 output | Not available | 106 g/mi |
| Engines offered | Not available | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, 6.0, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI |
| Transmissions | Automatic (A1) | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Electricity | Premium, Premium and Electricity |
| EPA class | Large Cars | Large Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 62 | 106 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
Model S vs S-Class: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Tesla Model S or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
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 Model S and S-Class offer?
Tesla Model S: no engine data on record. Mercedes-Benz S-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, 6.0, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Tesla Model S and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class as Large Cars, so they compete directly.
More Model S comparisons
Comparison id: tesla-model-s-vs-mercedes-benz-s-class