The battle between hybrid and fully electric supercars is heating up, and two of the most exciting contenders are the BMW i8 and the upcoming Tesla Roadster. While the BMW i8 blends gasoline and electric power for an efficient yet thrilling ride, the Tesla Roadster aims to dominate the industry with record-breaking speed and range.
So, which one is the better electric supercar? Let’s compare the BMW i8 vs. Tesla Roadster in terms of performance, speed, range, technology, and price to find out.
🔹 BMW i8 vs. Tesla Roadster: Quick Comparison
| Feature | BMW i8 | Tesla Roadster (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Plug-in Hybrid (Gas + Electric) | Fully Electric (EV) |
| Horsepower | 374 hp | 1,000+ hp |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 10,000+ Nm |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 4.4 seconds | 1.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (155 mph) | 400+ km/h (250+ mph) |
| Electric Range | 55 km (34 miles) | 1,000 km (620 miles) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Price | $70,000 – $120,000 (Used) | Estimated $200,000+ |
Both cars offer cutting-edge technology and stunning designs, but their performance and powertrain cater to different types of drivers. Let’s dive deeper into their key features.
🔹 Performance & Speed: Which One is Faster?
🏎️ BMW i8 Performance
The BMW i8 features a 1.5L TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine (231 hp) paired with an electric motor (143 hp), producing a total of 374 hp and 570 Nm torque.
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.4 seconds
- Top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph)
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for better grip
While these numbers are impressive for a hybrid sports car, they don’t come close to the Tesla Roadster’s all-electric performance.
⚡ Tesla Roadster Performance
Tesla claims that the new Roadster will be the fastest production car ever built. It features a fully electric powertrain with a three-motor setup, delivering over 1,000 hp and a mind-blowing 10,000 Nm of torque.
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 1.9 seconds
- Top speed of over 400 km/h (250+ mph)
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with torque vectoring
🏆 Winner: Tesla Roadster – The BMW i8 is quick, but the Tesla Roadster is on another level when it comes to acceleration and top speed.
🔹 Electric Range & Efficiency: Which One Lasts Longer?
🔋 BMW i8 Range & Fuel Efficiency
The BMW i8 can drive in pure electric mode for up to 55 km (34 miles) before the gasoline engine takes over. When using both power sources, it has an impressive fuel economy of 2.1L/100 km (112 MPG).
However, in 2025, this range is considered low compared to fully electric vehicles.
⚡ Tesla Roadster Range
Tesla is promising a massive 1,000 km (620 miles) range on a single charge, thanks to a 200 kWh battery pack. This makes it the longest-range EV ever built, capable of long road trips without frequent charging stops.
🏆 Winner: Tesla Roadster – The BMW i8’s hybrid efficiency is great, but the Tesla Roadster’s massive battery range dominates the competition.
🔹 Design & Technology: Futuristic Showdown
🚗 BMW i8 Design
The BMW i8 still looks like a concept car from the future, with:
✔️ Scissor-style butterfly doors
✔️ Aerodynamic body with hybrid blue accents
✔️ Sleek LED laser headlights
Inside, it features a driver-focused cockpit, digital instrument cluster, and a premium iDrive infotainment system.
🚀 Tesla Roadster Design
The Tesla Roadster follows a sleek, modern design, featuring:
✔️ Removable glass roof for a convertible experience
✔️ Minimalist interior with a large touchscreen
✔️ Advanced autopilot and self-driving capabilities
🏆 Winner: Tie – The BMW i8 looks futuristic, while the Tesla Roadster has a modern and minimalist supercar aesthetic.
🔹 Practicality & Usability: Daily Driver or Weekend Supercar?
🛣️ BMW i8 Practicality
- 2+2 seating configuration (rear seats are small)
- Small trunk space (154 liters)
- Hybrid system reduces fuel dependency
🔋 Tesla Roadster Practicality
- Two-seater sports car
- More cargo space thanks to front and rear trunks
- Supercharger network for fast charging
🏆 Winner: BMW i8 – The BMW i8 is more practical for daily use, thanks to its hybrid system and extra seats.
🔹 Price & Value: Which One is Worth Buying?
💰 BMW i8 Price in 2025
Since production ended in 2020, the BMW i8 is available only as a used car. Prices range from:
- $70,000 – $120,000 (Used market)
This makes the i8 one of the most affordable hybrid supercars.
💰 Tesla Roadster Price
The 2025 Tesla Roadster is expected to start at $200,000+, with a Founder’s Edition priced at $250,000.
🏆 Winner: BMW i8 – The Tesla Roadster is significantly more expensive, making the BMW i8 a budget-friendly alternative for an exotic hybrid supercar.
🔹 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Top Speed & Acceleration | Tesla Roadster 🚀 |
| Electric Range & Efficiency | Tesla Roadster ⚡ |
| Design & Technology | Tie 🎨 |
| Practicality & Usability | BMW i8 🏆 |
| Price & Affordability | BMW i8 💰 |
🏆 Overall Winner: Tesla Roadster
If you want the fastest, most advanced electric supercar, the Tesla Roadster is the clear winner. With record-breaking acceleration, a 1,000 km range, and futuristic tech, it’s set to dominate the EV supercar market.
🏆 Best Budget Option: BMW i8
If you’re looking for a more affordable, stylish, and practical hybrid sports car, the BMW i8 remains a great choice. It offers a unique mix of gas-electric power, head-turning design, and exclusivity at a fraction of the cost of the Tesla Roadster.
🚗 Which one would you choose? Let us know in the comments! 👇
👉 Stay tuned for more car comparisons and EV news! 🚀