VS

Tesla Model 3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (460 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (31700 £ vs 19700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Tesla Model 3 or BYD Dolphin Surf?

Tesla Model 3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

Tesla Model 3

3.8 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • decisively more power
  • somewhat more efficient
  • convincingly more electric range
  • clearly quicker from 0–100 km/h
  • convincingly more trunk space

BYD Dolphin Surf

  • significantly cheaper
  • evident lighter

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Model 3

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

BYD Dolphin Surf has a significantly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 19700 £ , while the Tesla Model 3 costs 31700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 12000 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Tesla Model 3: with 13 kWh per 100 km, it’s somewhat more efficient than the BYD Dolphin Surf with 15.50 kWh. That’s a difference of about 2.50 kWh.

As for electric range, the Tesla Model 3 performs convincingly better – achieving up to 750 km, about 428 km more than the BYD Dolphin Surf.

Dolphin Surf

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Tesla Model 3 has a decisively edge – offering 460 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 304 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model 3 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.10 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.10 s. That’s about 6 s faster.

There’s also a difference in torque: Tesla Model 3 pulls decisively stronger with 660 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 440 Nm difference.

Model 3

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Tesla Model 3 offers slightly more seating capacity – 5 vs 4.

In curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is evident lighter – 1294 kg compared to 1772 kg. The difference is around 478 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Tesla Model 3 offers convincingly more room – 594 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 286 L.

When it comes to payload, Tesla Model 3 barely noticeable takes the win – 377 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 33 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Tesla Model 3 is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

Tesla Model 3
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis
from about £31,700
Model 3

Tesla Model 3

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 283 - 460 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 13 - 16.7 kWh
  • Electric Range : 534 - 750 km

Tesla Model 3

3.8 (4 Reviews)
rate

The Tesla Model 3 slices through daily commuting with a silent, confident shove that makes petrolheads reassess their life choices, while its minimalist cabin feels more like a slick gadget gallery than a traditional car interior. For buyers after a fuss-free, tech-forward electric with plenty of grin factor and low running drama, it’s hard to beat—just don't be surprised when the car updates itself overnight.

details

BYD Dolphin Surf

The BYD Dolphin Surf is an intriguing model that combines sleek design with modern electric technology, making it an appealing choice for urban commuters seeking sustainability and style. Its dynamic exterior design is complemented by an interior that prioritizes comfort and functionality, reflecting the brand's commitment to innovation. The model also offers impressive handling and a smooth driving experience, embodying the shift towards eco-friendly transportation.

details
Tesla Model 3
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption

Price
31700 - 50100 £
Price
19700 - 26600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
13 - 16.7 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh
Electric Range
534 - 750 km
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Battery Capacity
83 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
4
Doors
-
Curb weight
1772 - 1929 kg
Curb weight
1294 - 1390 kg
Trunk capacity
594 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
4724 mm
Length
-
Width
1850 mm
Width
1720 mm
Height
1431 mm
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
303 - 377 kg
Payload
344 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
283 - 460 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.1 - 6.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
262 km/h
Max Speed
-
Torque
420 - 660 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
208 - 338 kW
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Tesla
Brand
BYD
Is the Tesla Model 3 offered with different drivetrains?

Available configurations include All-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive.

The prices shown are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted for local VAT. Local registration taxes (e.g. NoVA, BPM or CO2 malus) are not included. This information is not legally binding.