I know the topic of 21" vs 19" and air vs coil has been discussed at length (I have read the threads). I have converted a P85 order (19", coil) to a P85D. The P85D order was initially configured as (21", air) because other choices were not offered. I'm wondering of I should switch to my original thought of (19", coil) now that that configuration is available, and so am seeking advice.
To help me make a decision, you should understand my preferences (preferences of others may vary). Here's some background:
So with that I am inclined based on my reading of the various forum threads to think:
I don't expect this to be the most "popular" choice, but believe its right for me. Can anyone see anything I've missed ? The Coil vs Air seems to me the bigger decision as it is for practical purposes irreversible.
Sorry for the length of this post, but for those still reading, the wisdom of those with more experience (especially anyone with the ability to share experiences driving Air vs Coil with the 19" wheels and the same brand/make of tires) is appreciated ...
yak-55
To help me make a decision, you should understand my preferences (preferences of others may vary). Here's some background:
- I will be a new MS owner. I have test driven P85 models with (air, 21") and (coil, 19") configurations. Unfortunately the tires are significantly different in these two configurations, so its hard to distinguish suspension vs tire vs wheel effects. The (coil, 19") car seemed to meet my expectations.
- I am not an "order every option" guy. I don't feel the need to "follow the crowd" nor am I particularly concerned about how these choices might impact resale value. Essentially I expect to keep the car forever.
- Even though I'm buying a ~$120k car, expense matters to me. I'd rather spend on performance than looks all else being equal.
- While I am mechanically oriented and have modified other cars previously, I don't plan to "re-engineer/upgrade" this one.
- The P85D will be a daily driver in Florida. I don't think I'll have much need to raise the suspension to clear obstacles.
- I like performance/spirited driving, but won't be tracking this car (I feel there are much better choices available in this price range for that use)
- My past experience suggests the best handling upgrade for the money and effort is to buy (really) good tires.
- I think about life-cycle costs, so often am more willing than others to spend money in the short term to save (more) money in the long term.
- Handling, ride and noise level should find a balance, but I weigh them in that order. Aesthetics (in wheels and tires) don't mean a lot to me. (I think the 19" wheel choice is fine on a car as nice looking as the MS).
- Reliability matters. All else being equal, simpler is better. (Although I fully appreciate the MS is not a simple car by any means).
So with that I am inclined based on my reading of the various forum threads to think:
- 19" wheels over 21" wheels - I am indifferent to the styling, there doesn't seem to be a substantial handling improvement on 21" vs 19" on equivalent tires (I will not drive the OEM tires forever, and expect that better replacement tires will be available in either size). I am put off by the cost of rapid tire wear on the 21" tires caused by the negative camber setup chosen by Tesla. The 19" rims (non-staggered) allow more effective and simpler tire rotations to maximize tread life. If the staggered 21"s are really better, I can probably use the $4500 saved to buy aftermarket (or used OEM) 21"s later. And probably install lolachampcar's revised rear link to reduce static rear camber.
- Coil Spring over Air Suspension - I am lead to believe both handle and ride well, although there are lots of opinions both ways. I think its true that with good rubber on (light) 19" rims both will perform (accelerate, handle) well. The air seems potentially complex/expensive to repair (although I haven't read of any negative experiences). With the air suspension on low (I'd be inclined to drive with it set there in the belief that it handles "sportier") the high rear tire wear issue seems to be exacerbated. If I go with the coil springs I have $2250 (more) in my pocket to buy good rubber when the OEMs wear out if more (handling or ride) performance is desired.
I don't expect this to be the most "popular" choice, but believe its right for me. Can anyone see anything I've missed ? The Coil vs Air seems to me the bigger decision as it is for practical purposes irreversible.
Sorry for the length of this post, but for those still reading, the wisdom of those with more experience (especially anyone with the ability to share experiences driving Air vs Coil with the 19" wheels and the same brand/make of tires) is appreciated ...
yak-55