VS
At a Glance
Power
271hp @ 5600
510hp
Torque
258lb-ft @ 2000
546lb-ft
Engine
2.4 L/146cc
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Choosing between the Subaru WRX and the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru WRX delivers 271hp @ 5600 while the Tesla Model 3 produces 510hp. Pricing starts at $44,995 for the WRX and $36,990 for the Model 3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
271hp @ 5600
510hp
Torque (lb-ft)
258lb-ft @ 2000
546lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146cc
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Cylinders
4
—
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
18mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
25mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
16.6gal
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Dimensions
Length (in)
183.8in
185.8in
Width (in)
71.9in
72.8in
Height (in)
57.8in
—
Wheelbase (in)
105.2in
113.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3560lbs
4054lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
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✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tesla Model 3
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Model 3
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Model 3
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Subaru WRX
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Tesla Model 3
Lower starting price ($36,990)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the WRX or Model 3?
The WRX produces 271hp @ 5600 and 258lb-ft @ 2000 of torque while the Model 3 delivers 510hp and 546lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the WRX and Model 3?
The WRX starts from $44,995 and the Model 3 from $36,990. The Model 3 is cheaper by $8,005 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the WRX or the Model 3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider