Many drivers believe that Tesla has set the bar so high that no other vehicle can even come close to challenging these diverse and high-performing options, except for one. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is anything but ordinary, and one look inside its exceptionally laid-out cabin and throughout its chiseled exterior, and you’ll know that this vehicle is ready to give Tesla’s comparable Model Y a run for its money. If you’re on the hunt for your next electric utility vehicle, these two options should be on your list, since after all, both offer drivers exactly what they’re looking for in a vehicle by way of an exciting drive, legendary tech, and styles that can’t be beat. When comparing the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2021 Tesla Model Y, does the Mach-E have what it takes to outperform the Model Y in key areas that buyers are searching for, or will it fall short? Let’s find out if Ford has indeed created a vehicle that can finally rival one of Tesla’s treasured offerings.
Driving Dynamics
One of the most important aspects when shopping for a new car is the ride. There’s nothing worse than getting behind the wheel of a car you’ve always wanted to test drive just to find out that its ride is rough, unstable, and downright unenjoyable. Driving dynamics matter, and when you pair the Ford Mustang Mach-E against the Tesla Model Y, you’re in for a thrilling experience. Both are powered by electricity, and although some of their capabilities are similar, one delivers the better ride, which is imperative for any type of driver, whether you’re a regular everyday commuter or a frequent road tripper.
The 2021 Mach-E is armed with your choice of a 75.7-kWh battery pack or an upgraded 98.8-kWh battery paired with an electric motor. Not only can you expect a power that can only come from a Ford, you’re able to enjoy an acceleration that is just plain exhilarating. Blasting from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, you’ll never have to worry about being able to get going when you need to, and with its smooth ride, drivers love this exciting machine. With a range of up to 305 miles, the Mach-E is a top choice for many different types of journeys, maximizing its potential to wow you no matter what. Not only can you expect a powerful ride, you’ll realize the moment you put your foot down on the pedal that the Mach-E is responsive, agile, and offers a quiet ride that you can’t find elsewhere.
Surprisingly, the Model Y leaves something to be desired when it comes to its driving performance. Not as powerful or as quick as the Mach-E, the Model Y’s ride is quite boring when you compare it directly to the energetic Mustang Mach-E. Its range is favorable, able to travel up to 326 miles on a single charge; however, its steering and handling could use some work. It doesn’t matter which badge is stamped on your car. If it doesn’t perform optimally, it’s time for a better vehicle, and in this case, that vehicle is the Mustang Mach-E if you want better performance, superior handling, and sheer power in your everyday vehicle.
Interior Comfort
Comfort is extremely important for any driver, whether you find yourself frequently driving into the city for work or running the kids to and from school each day. The last thing you want in a vehicle is to be disappointed by the lack of space, appointments, and overall feel inside your everyday transporter. Imagine getting into your vehicle after work to find that the loud outside noise is permeating through the cabin, preventing you from decompressing after a long day, or you’re unable to get comfortable for your long trek home. So, what do the Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y have in common? Well, for starters, they’re both vying for your attention with their distinct interiors.
We’ll start with the Mustang Mach-E since it’s already wowing us with its graceful driving dynamics, and you’ll be even more mesmerized by its opulent interior. Ford stops at nothing to deliver a vehicle that checks all the boxes when it comes to convenience, comfort, and sophistication by way of a cavernous interior, complete with ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and more. Enjoy 59.7 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold the second-row seats down to accommodate everything you’re hauling around for the day. Plus, you get a bonus 4.8 cubic feet of space in the frunk. With a durable trunk material that can be removed and washed, the Mach-E is quite literally ready for anything. Plus, with the location of its battery pack under the floor, you’re able to enjoy an even roomier cabin, perfect for any type of journey.
Tesla has been known to design vehicles that are a step ahead of the rest, and the Model Y does feature some positives, like up to 68 cubic feet of cargo space and room to fit seven inside, although it may be a snug fit. Fairly sparse on the inside, the only features that you’ll notice right away are its massive touchscreen in the center of the dash, along with its all-glass roof…thankfully, it’s tinted. Aside from that, the Model Y embodies a minimalist design and executes that perfectly, so if that’s what you’re looking for, the Model Y certainly delivers. With all that, you’re able to get in the Mach-E by way of premium appointments and an overall more enjoyable cabin experience; there’s no doubt that Ford blows Tesla out of the water with its well-defined and ultra-plush interior.
Tech, Safety, Practicality & More
Everyone wants a vehicle with all the latest tech, and if there’s one thing you know about electric vehicles, it’s that they offer some of the best tech on the market. The Mach-E showcases its tech features through a beautiful 15.5-inch touchscreen, providing access to all of your coveted apps. You’ll also get to enjoy the immersive hands-free driving technology through Ford’s Co-Pilot360 technology, which is expected to make its debut via an over-the-air update in 2022, as well as top safety and driver assist tech designed to make your ride more secure than ever before. A 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick, the Mach-E delivers the ultimate experience behind the wheel that’s not only electrifying but safe as well.
Like we mentioned before, the moment you open the doors of the Model Y, you’re assaulted by its laptop-like screen situated right in the center of the dash. Here, you’ll control most aspects of your vehicle, from connectivity options to basic commands, like operating your windshield wipers and other basic functions. It may seem a bit odd to adjust your mirrors from the touchscreen, so if this is a little much for you, we don’t blame you. You’ll also get to enjoy Autopilot features on the Model Y, which include semi-autonomous driving abilities; however, this feature is not standard and will come at a cost.
So when it comes to practicality and affordability, who wins? Both the Mach-E and the Model Y offer similar features, making them both practical for any type of driver. Where the Mach-E pulls ahead in this area is with its more affordable price tag. Coming in at almost $11K under the Model Y’s starting price, the Mach-E is geared toward the more cost-conscious buyer. And with everything you’re able to enjoy inside and out, there’s no denying that it’s the better deal.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2021 Tesla Model Y
Tesla is taking a backseat to Ford in a major way. When you’re searching for the ideal electric traveler to take you everywhere you need to go and beyond, the Mustang Mach-E showcases spectacular driving dynamics, excellent cabin space, and loads of tech and safety features for a much more affordable price than the Model Y. Think about it…you work hard every day, and when you want to get more for your money, there’s no doubt that the Mustang Mach-E delivers a smooth, agile ride in a cozy, well thought-out cabin. With all the features you’re searching for in your next confident and reliable vehicle, the Mustang Mach-E proves that it’s worth the hype.
