New vs Used: Tesla Model Y versus Mercedes EQC

The depreciation of electric vehicles is such that buying a low-mileage luxury car is extremely interesting. Here’s the proof.

The loss of value of electric cars is unprecedented in automotive history. And we’re talking here about prestigious brands that early on bet on this decarbonized energy source. In our comparison today between the relevance of new versus used, let’s focus on an SUV limousine that appeared in 2019.

The Mercedes EQC (now known as the EQE) was once an unaffordable electric dream. Certainly, the powertrain was already electric, but everything on board was top-notch. Materials, finishing, equipment – it was hard to do better. And with its XXL battery of 81 kWh, autonomy was promised for 437 kilometers in mixed cycle. In magazines, journalists crossed Europe behind its wheel, demonstrating its very long range.

Sold new starting at 80,000 euros (82,000 euros for the 2021 models), used prices have plunged by more than 50%. The example found here, dated 2021 and boasting the AMG Line package with only 42,700 kilometers on the clock, is listed at less than 39,000 euros. With a bit of goodwill from the seller, you’ll leave with it for about 37,000 euros. This is the price of the Tesla Model Y Entry-level Propulsion at 36,990 euros (September 2024).

Technical Specifications

Comfort and Presentation

In this first chapter, there is absolutely no match between the Tesla Model Y Propulsion and the Mercedes EQC. The finishing and materials of the German electric SUV are incomparable. For proof, after 3 years of life, the interior is like new. Externally, Mercedes’s attention to detail results in an immaculate bodywork, with no premature aging of often exposed elements like bumpers, wheel arches, wheels, or others. The EQC looks like new.

Ultimately, you don’t feel like you’re buying a car that has already lived. The 42,000 kilometers on the clock are consistent. Finally, owners of cars valued at nearly 100,000 euros tend to take very good care of them, out of education and fear of losing even more money. And if the car was a Long-Term Lease (often the case as well, hence the 3-year age…), then the dealership has charged reconditioning fees to perfectly prepare the vehicle.

Despite similar dimensions, the Tesla Model Y offers an absolutely gigantic cargo capacity, almost bordering on mystery: 971 liters between the front and rear trunks, versus 575 liters for the Mercedes EQC.

Driving and Performance

The Tesla Model Y Propulsion gets its revenge here. Lighter, a bit more modern, and benefiting from all of Tesla’s electric expertise, it stands out particularly for its charging speed (170 kW compared to only 110 kW for the EQC). Also, being over 500 kg lighter, it ensures significantly lower consumption, giving it better range (+18 km) despite a smaller battery (-14 kWh). The EQC slightly catches up on the so-called “home” charging with 11 kW versus 7.4 kW for the Model Y. As a result, a slow charge will take the same time in both cases.

However, it should be noted that the Mercedes EQC has all-wheel drive, which certainly weighs into the equation. Both in terms of weight and traction on low-grip roads. Nevertheless, being so heavy, the Mercedes EQC will consume more tires, which is not negligible in the long-term financial balance.

Conclusion

The first piece of information to remember is that buying a new electric car is not the most inspired idea to avoid losing (too much) money. The prices of used electric cars are dropping so much that indulging in a luxury model is very tempting.

Intrinsically, the 3-year-old Mercedes EQC at the price of a Tesla Model Y Propulsion is quite a stunning offer. However, be cautious about the lack of warranty which, in the event of a technical problem, could quickly become very costly. But when you love…

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