Tesla Roadster (1st generation)
The spark that ignited the electric revolution.
- Power
- 248 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.9 s
- Top speed
- 125 mph
- Est. value
- $45k–$130k
About the Tesla Roadster
The first-generation Tesla Roadster was the vehicle that proved electric cars could be desirable, high-performance machines. Built on a modified Lotus Elise chassis, it combined British handling with a revolutionary lithium-ion battery pack and a high-revving AC induction motor. While early units faced transmission challenges, the Roadster eventually delivered a range of over 240 miles, a feat unheard of for production EVs in 2008. It remains a landmark in automotive history, representing the transition from niche prototypes to viable serial production electric sports cars.
Tesla Roadster specs
The Tesla Roadster produces 248 bhp (185 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).
| Make | Tesla |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadster |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | Roadster |
| Years | 2008–2012 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 2,450 built |
| Original price | About $99,000 when new |
| Engine | 3-phase 4-pole AC induction electric motor |
|---|---|
| Induction | Electric |
| Power | 248 bhp (185 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 13,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 3.9 s |
| Top speed | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Transmission | Single-speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,305 kg (2,877 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 190 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Tesla Roadster worth?
A typical Tesla Roadster is estimated to be worth $45,000 – $130,000 (about £34,000 – £97,000).
Its original price when new was about $99,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Tesla Roadster rarity in CarSpot
The Tesla Roadster is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 50 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Tesla Roadster fun facts
- The Tesla Roadster was the first production car to use lithium-ion battery cells and the first to achieve a range of over 200 miles per charge.
- Elon Musk's personal 2008 Roadster was launched into space in 2018 as a dummy payload for the SpaceX Falcon Heavy test flight.
- Though a Silicon Valley product, the Roadster's chassis was manufactured by Lotus in Hethel, England, and final assembly took place in California.
