2008-2011 Tesla Roadster: Should You Buy One, And For How Much? Page 2

By Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield

4,653 views May 18, 2012

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2010 Tesla Roadster Sport 2.5 Cold Weather Testing

2011 Tesla Roadster Sport 2.5

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Reliability

With most Tesla Roadsters still in the hands of their first owners, most are maintained and kept by Tesla according to its own service schedule. 

With on-board telematics communicating battery health to Tesla, battery pack problems are often known about by the firm and remedied before they become apparent to the owner. 

It isn’t just battery packs either. One Tesla Roadster had the entire chassis repaired just before the expiration of its 36,000 mile warranty after a Tesla Mechanic spotted a barely-visible crack.

In short, provided its owner follows all the necessary battery care instructions and follows recommended maintenance routines, the Tesla Roadster should give many years of reliable use. 

Prices

Because such limited numbers of the Tesla Roadster were made, the all-electric sports car has become somewhat of a collector’s item, with most used examples selling for anything from $80,000 upwards on auction sites like Ebay.

But be aware: cheaper, older versions for sale may use the 1.x drivetrain, which is a little slower and has less efficient cooling than the 2.x drivetrain, meaning power can be limited a little sooner in the case of over-spirited driving.

These can be identified by the presence of a gear-lever instead of the push-button arrangement used in later cars, and a much more spartan interior. 

Our verdict

With an active owners club and a limited production, the Tesla Roadster is a fun sports car that can combine a solid investment with a fun driving experience. 

But remember: while it will perform the duties of a two-seat commuter car, it’s happiest racing along open roads or the local race-track. 

If you’re looking for a fun car that will always make you feel as young as you did when you left college whilst providing the thrill of zero-emissions driving, look no further. 

If you’re looking for a sensible daily drive that will handle all of those usual errands you encounter in the course of a busy family day, your pennies might be better spent on the up-coming 2012 Tesla Model S. 

With the base-level model starting at just $55,000, it has more seats, more space and more practicality, but retains the legendary Tesla drivetrain and performance. 

Finally, if you do decide to buy a used Tesla Roadster, be sure to check out our comprehensive review, weekend drive report, read 10 reasons why you'll love the Tesla Roadster, and pay a visit to the Tesla Motors Club for real-world experience from long-term owners.

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