The Roadster is back for 2021, putting Tesla back on the map in a big way
It also comes with a big price increase. Will it be worth the money spent and hold its value well into the future? Perhaps only time will tell. Let’s take a look
How Well Does the Tesla Roadster Retain its Value?
The Tesla Roadster is well known as the only car to ever make the trip into space. If the model wasn’t popular by that time, that move cemented it as a true piece of history. Between that historic event and the exclusivity of its build, its depreciation rates are downright admirable.
Over the past 10 years, the first-generation Roadster has lost about 11.11% of its original MSRP of $109,000. If you want to buy one now, expect to pay around $96,900 for the privilege.
Factors that contribute to its 10-year retail resale value:
- Truly environmentally friendly design
- Exclusive build only made for four years
- Futuristic exterior design
- Excellent manufacturer support
- Impressive power output
There’s no perfect year to buy. You just have to decide if you want a first- or second-generation model.
The first-gen cars are available now if you’re able to find a willing seller.
The 2021 Roadster will roll out soon, though it does come at double the price. They are likely both equally difficult to acquire even with the full retail sales price in hand.
Customer Perceptions
The original Tesla Roadster was well loved by everyone who got a chance to buy one. Although they had a long wait for the delivery of their cars, everyone was instantly impressed with the build quality and performance. The ability to go 200 miles on a single charge also won them over.
Nearly 2,500 people ended up with this model, making it quite elusive on the resale market. It’s also difficult to find because owners absolutely adore everything about it and are not keen to sell.
What Does the 2021 Tesla Roadster Cost?
With the success of the first-generation model, Tesla knew they could put their all into its redesign.
They reworked its appearance from the ground up and made performance a top priority. Still an all-electric car, the 2021 Roadster can reportedly go 0 to 60 in just 1.9 seconds.
Although it’s set to be sold as a 2021 model, they are only taking reservations for now. The cars will be built one by one and likely shipped out in early 2022. Although it’s a long wait, many first-gen owners note that it’s well worth the time spent dreaming about its arrival.
The Roadster comes in two trim levels: the base model and Founder’s Series. Their MSRP ranges from $200,000 to $250,000. Although there have been rumors of a SpaceX Options Package, no concrete details or pricing information has been released.
Base Model
The base model costs $200,000 and requires an immediate $5,000 down payment. Within 10 days, you have to pay an additional $45,000 or risk losing your reservation. The remainder is due before it’s delivered.
For that, you get a sleek and sophisticated supercar with the bodylines and flash of a Lamborghini.
Unlike the classic supercars, this one is all-electric, though the performance is unmatched by all the rest.
Using its coveted Plaid powerplant, it can reach 60 MPH in 1.9 seconds and 100 in 4.2 seconds. If you want to take it down the quarter-mile, hold on tight. It will make it to the finish line in a stunning 8.8 seconds.
Beyond being blazingly fast, this car has exceptional range, going over 600 miles on a single charge. They may even go with additional battery modules to raise that range by another 100 miles.
The interior is just as futuristic as all other Tesla vehicles, giving you the feeling of being in a spaceship. While it technically has four seats, the two in the rear are rather small, making them less than ideal for adults.
The removable glass roof looks fantastic fitted in place and easily comes out when you want to go topless. You can then store the roof in the trunk to tool around town waving to all your admirers.
Founder’s Series
Tesla will only sell 1,000 Founder’s Series Roadsters for the 2021 model year. This model will cost $250,000 with the full amount due to reserve your car.
Although minimal details have been released about this trim, it will likely get a beautiful nameplate and a distinct production number. They may even be signed by Elon Musk himself, driving up their resale value considerably.
Buying a 2021 Roadster? Get Help from Vehicle History
As you look to the 2021 Tesla Roadster as your next car, let Vehicle History provide the info you need. During your visit, you can look at owners’ reviews and expert opinions to get a clear picture of what it would be like to own one.
