A Tesla Roadster deposit costs more than these sports cars
Ahead of the Tesla Roadster being unveiled on October 1, the US EV giant has re-opened its deposit system. Here’s what you could buy instead.
After more than six years of delays, Tesla is due to reveal the second-generation Roadster on October 1, and it’s happy to take money from buyers now to fund production.
First previewed in concept form in 2017, the Roadster was meant to enter production in 2020, though – like many other Tesla vehicles – it has been hampered by delays, without the full vehicle even being displayed yet.
Available to be reserved for $66,000 in Australia – $7000 of which is required up-front, and the additional $59,000 within 10 days – the Roadster has been available for deposits to be placed since 2017, though this was temporarily paused earlier this year, and only now opened back up.
It’s believed to be one of the highest known deposit amounts for a new car which has yet to reach production, and one which has not yet been priced, with the early figure of US$200,000 (A$281,250) when it was first announced expected to be no longer feasible.
With the option of cold-gas thrusters and all the autonomous driving technology Tesla is famous for, the Roadster will be far more advanced than the 2017 concept, and even more so than the first-gen model which launched in 2008, based on the chassis of a Lotus Elise.
While Tesla is yet to confirm whether the Roadster will even be made in right-hand drive and be sold in Australia, we thought we’d take a look at some of the new, fun cars you could buy for the same $66,000 you’d spend on a deposit.
Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ – $46,340 to $52,790 before on-road costs
Two of the most popular four-cylinder two-door sports cars in Australia, the second-gen Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 improved on the formula of their first-gen predecessors, addressing engine and chassis complaints to give a more well-rounded driving experience.
Split by only a few thousand dollars depending on what badge and features you want, they’re not only seen as great weekend cars but also capable of providing some level of practicality, with rear seats providing space for kids – just like the Roadster.
What’s more is that there is a huge aftermarket network for the sports car twins, providing owners with more power, even greater handling or endless aesthetic modifications, all for far less than the Roadster will cost.
Honda Prelude – $65,000 drive-away
Want to drive a sports car but don’t want to piss off Captain Planet? The Honda Prelude is the only option for those seeking hybrid power in their affordable performance rides.
Underpinned by the same structure as the Civic including its engine, the Prelude provides reduced-guilt motoring by using its zippy hybrid powertrain to provide plenty of driving thrills without needing to worry as much about visiting the petrol pump frequently.
While its design is polarising, it’s not a bad looking car, though that low-set rear window does create a hassle for rear occupants, whether they be children in dedicated seats or adults.
Mazda MX-5 – $42,640 to $56,790 before on-road costs
Arguably the best roadster in automotive history, the Mazda MX-5 is often viewed as the benchmark sports car, coupling light weight with a direct chassis and peppy engine to deliver the driving experience many enthusiasts crave.
Available in full convertible soft-top and semi-coupe hard-top guise, the MX-5 may only be a two-seater, but what it lacks in practicality it makes up for in driving pleasure, staying true to its original formula.
Though a Tesla Roadster would undoubtedly be faster in a straight line, as every MX-5 owner knows that’s not where it shines, with its strengths coming out when things get twisty.
Subaru WRX – $48,990 to $63,990 before on-road costs
It might be a surprise, but for not much more than some of the other cars listed here – and a lot less than a Roadster deposit – you can get into a Subaru WRX and have a bit of change left over.
While it’s grown in size from the 1990s rally hero everyone loves and remembers, the WRX still is a unique proposition in the performance car market at this price point, offering all-wheel drive, a potent turbo-four engine, and even the choice of a manual transmission in the sedan.
Forever a favourite for mountain road warriors and track day heroes, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see a WRX and Tesla Roadster at the same events, despite both boasting to be performance cars.
Volkswagen Golf GTI – $59,890 before on-road costs
Last but not least, the original hot hatch, the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which just scrapes in under the $66,000 figure in most states, especially with a bit of haggling.
One of the most famous nameplates in the automotive industry, the Golf GTI has now lasted eight generations, all of which have been front-wheel drive, offering a different driving experience to most of the other performance options around the same price point.
It’s bigger than ever but the turbocharged engine under the bonnet still helps to make it feel like a quick car, while the chassis remains one of the standouts in the market.
Now you’ve read our list, what cars would you buy if you chose not to put $66,000 down on a Tesla Roadster?
