I’ve always had a soft spot for powerful, high-performance vehicles. So when I had the chance to pit the Jeep Trackhawk against the Tesla Model Y Performance and the Tesla Model X Performance in a drag and roll race, I couldn’t resist. This wasn’t just about comparing numbers or specs—it was about experiencing firsthand the raw power and technological prowess each of these vehicles brings to the table.
The Jeep Trackhawk, with its 707-horsepower supercharged V8 engine, has always intrigued me. I remember the first time I drove one; it was a blend of brute force and refined luxury. Its engine growled with authority, and the acceleration was nothing short of exhilarating. I was eager to see how this monstrous machine would fare against the electric marvels from Tesla.
Then there were the Teslas—both the Model Y Performance and the Model X Performance. The Model Y Performance boasts an impressive 456 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, thanks to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. It’s a compact SUV that doesn’t just look sleek but has the performance to back it up. The Model X Performance, on the other hand, takes things to another level with 1020 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful electric SUVs available. With its Falcon Wing doors and a 0-60 mph time of around 2.5 seconds, it’s a sight to behold and a beast on the track.
Our drag race was set for a wide, flat stretch of road, perfect for showcasing raw acceleration. The Trackhawk, with its traditional V8 roar, felt like it was going to dominate. Its 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque were impressive on paper, and the anticipation of feeling that power translate into speed was almost palpable. As we lined up, I couldn’t help but admire the Trackhawk’s aggressive stance and muscular design. I was ready for the growl of the engine and the thrust of its acceleration.
When the lights turned green, the Trackhawk surged forward with a throaty roar. Its acceleration was indeed powerful, pushing me back into my seat as it bolted down the strip. But what was truly fascinating was watching the Teslas in action. The Model Y Performance, despite its more modest horsepower compared to the Trackhawk, launched with an impressive immediacy. The instant torque from the electric motors gave it an edge, propelling it forward with incredible speed.
Then came the Model X Performance. Watching it launch was like witnessing a spaceship taking off. The Falcon Wing doors might be a crowd-pleaser, but the real spectacle was the sheer speed of the thing. The Tesla simply obliterated the distance between us and the finish line with a level of acceleration that was almost surreal. It was a reminder of how electric vehicles, with their instantaneous torque delivery, could outperform even the most powerful internal combustion engines in a straight-line race.
Next up was the roll race. Here, the Trackhawk had a bit of an advantage with its powerful V8 engine. We started at around 40 mph, and as soon as the signal was given, I mashed the accelerator. The Trackhawk surged forward with a deep rumble, its engine roaring as it climbed through the gears. But once again, the Teslas demonstrated their strength. The Model Y Performance, despite being the smallest of the three, was surprisingly quick off the line and held its own quite well. The Model X Performance, however, was in a league of its own. It surged forward with a relentless acceleration that was difficult to match, even with the Trackhawk’s significant power advantage.
The roll race highlighted a key difference between traditional and electric powertrains. While the Trackhawk’s V8 engine is thrilling and offers an incredibly satisfying driving experience, the Teslas’ electric motors provide a different kind of excitement. The instant torque of the electric motors allows them to accelerate with a precision and immediacy that’s hard to match with conventional engines.
After the races, reflecting on the experience, it was clear that each vehicle had its own strengths. The Jeep Trackhawk was all about that raw, visceral power and engine noise. It’s a vehicle that demands respect and delivers a driving experience that’s both thrilling and luxurious. The Tesla Model Y Performance, while not as fast as the Model X, impressed with its agility and impressive acceleration. It’s a testament to how electric SUVs are not just practical but also incredibly fast. And then there’s the Model X Performance, which felt like a technological marvel. Its acceleration was otherworldly, and the entire driving experience felt like something out of a science fiction novel.
In the end, the Jeep Trackhawk, Tesla Model Y Performance, and Tesla Model X Performance each brought something unique to the table. The Trackhawk delivered a traditional muscle-car thrill with its powerful V8 engine, while the Teslas offered a glimpse into the future of performance with their instant torque and cutting-edge technology. Whether you prefer the roar of a V8 or the silent yet explosive acceleration of electric motors, this comparison was a thrilling reminder of how diverse and exciting the world of performance vehicles can be.